The practice of Yoga has been in existence for the past 5,000 years, according to the American Yoga Association. Yoga attempts to join the mind and body together through proper breathing techniques, exercise poses and meditation. Yoga poses can help you clear your mind, connect with your body and improve your posture and flexibility.
Forward Bend Poses
Forward bend poses, according to the Yoga Journal, include the Padangusthasana, or Big Toe Pose, which require you to grasp your big toe with your fingers while keeping your knees straight. The Child's Pose, or Balsana, involves crouching in a fetal position with your hands tucked under legs and touching your feet. Combining both the child's pose and the downward facing pose, perform the Uttana Shishosana, or extended Puppy Pose, by kneeling on the ground and sliding your hands forward until your forearms are flat on the ground and your forehead touches the ground.
Standing Yoga Poses
Enjoy increased strength and flexibility as you learn to perform standing yoga poses. Stand straight, bend from your waist and place your right hand flat on the floor to perform the Extended Triangle, or Utthita Trikonasana pose. Continue the pose by extending your left hand up in the air and holding the position. Feel the stretch in your obliques as you do the Ardha Chandrasana, or Half Moon Pose. Clasp your hands over your head and bend your body to the side until your body forms the shape of the Crescent Moon, or Chandrasana pose.
Seated Yoga Poses
The seated yoga pose, Baddha Konasana, otherwise known Bound Angle Pose, helps open your groin and hip region. Sit on the floor with your feet pressed together, and knees as close to the floor as possible. Sit up straight and hold your ankles with your hands. Strengthen your hip and abdominal region with the Full Boat, or Paripurna Navasana. Balance on your bottom as you position your upper body and legs in a "V" position. Grasp your calves with your hands.
Core Poses
Core poses require strength in your abdominal region, according to Women Fitness.net. At first difficult, these will be easier as you get stronger. The Pavan-Muktasan pose improves the flexibility of your back and abdomen. Lie on your back and tuck your knees as close to your lifted head as possible. Flex your toes as you hold the pose. The advanced exercise known as the Bow, or Dhanurasan, begins with you lying on your stomach on the floor. Reach your arms behind you and grab your raised ankles. Balance on your abdomen to flatten and tone the region.
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