Is your 'alignment' correct?
Take me to a class where ‘alignment’ is never mentioned… Exactly!
As a student you’re concerned about whether you’re in the posture correctly and as an instructor you’re aware of safety in a posture for each student.
I often give verbal or practical cues and encourage students to try the options to see what works for them. It’s important to realise that each body is different and as individuals we’re all at different stages of our opening, lengthening, strengthening or self awareness.
Sometimes, stress, tension and lack of focus can cause the body to seize up. So if were able to get into a posture last week and are struggling this week… it’s okay.
Alignment tips vary per posture and school of yoga, however here are a few universal postures and tips to keep in mind:
Breath – this general cue will take you far in every posture
- Inhale to lengthen and open, exhale to fold or go deeper
Ground down – standing and balancing postures
- Take the weight down and actively use your feet, big toe, ball of the foot, out edges of the feet)
Lift up – Mountain pose, warrior 1 & 2, side angle posture
- Activate the belly and draw the lower back (lumbar spine) inwards for protection.
- Pull / draw upwards and inwards at the groin, pelvic floor, tail bone
- Open the rib cage and chest
Enjoy your practice!