Types of Yoga Exercises

Yoga combines the use of your mind and body to reach a state of peace and liberation. Yoga exercises are performed in a series of poses that require meditation and breathing. The poses have interesting names that are quite descriptive. With pose names like Cat Stretch and Cobra, yoga exercises can ignite curiosity in a beginner. A unique aspect of yoga is that the student never truly hits a limit on his potential.

  1. Standing Poses

    • This Tree Pose uses balance to stand on one foot.

      There are dozens of standing yoga poses. They incorporate balance, strength and breathing techniques while maintaining different vertical positions. Begin your routine with simpler poses, and work your way up to the more difficult ones.

      Poses such as the Tree Pose, Crescent Moon, Five Pointed Star and Warrior I are good beginner choices. Work your way up to bend poses such as the Wide Angle Forward Bend, the Triangle and the Standing Yoga Mudra.

    Floor Poses

    • The Easy Pose uses meditation and breathing to free the mind.

      Floor yoga poses require you to sit, and often times lay, on a large, flat surface. Floor poses almost always require a yoga mat, especially if you are on an uncomfortable surface.

      Begin with seated poses, then move into poses that require you to lay out. Seated poses such as the Easy Pose, Bound Angle Pose, Child's Pose, Extended Dog Pose and Crab Pose improve circulation and flexibility.

      Intermediate poses such as the Camel, Cow Face, Crane, Firelog and Flowering Lotus require more flexibility and balance.

    Advanced

    • An example of an advanced yoga pose that requires a great deal of strength and balance.

      Advanced yoga poses require superior flexibility, balance, strength and concentration. There are several advanced poses that look and feel quite impressive. Remember to breath and meditate while in pose to get the full benefit of the exercise.

      Advanced yoga poses such as Bird of Paradise, Dancer, Plough Pose and Peacock involve your entire body and mind to successfully complete. These poses involve extreme strength, balance and flexibility.