Creating Strength and Openness

A steady class that builds strength in the legs while encouraging openness through the hips and chest.

Today’s session

In this lesson, you will work with familiar standing poses while spending a little more time building strength and stability. The focus is on feeling supported through the legs while allowing the upper body to stay relaxed and open. Move with intention and give yourself time to settle into each pose.

As you practice, keep your breathing smooth and steady. Strength does not require tension, so regularly check in with your shoulders, neck, and face. If effort increases, soften where you can and return to a calm rhythm of breath.

This lesson helps you connect strength with ease, an important skill as the course continues. By practicing controlled effort, you are learning how to support your body efficiently and comfortably.

Required accessories for this lesson:

Yoga Mat

Exercise 1

Childs pose

Accessories

  • Yoga Mat

Instructions

  • Place your knees hip width apart and your big toes touching
  • Lift and bend your chest to your knees and head to the floor.
  • Slide your hands in front of you.
  • Make this an active stretch by activating your fingers, palms up, elbows off the floor and sliding your shoulder blades onto your back.
  • With each breath you should fall more deeply into the stretch.
  • Hold the pose for5 to 10 deep breaths.