Strengthening the Sides of the Body

A steady class that builds strength and awareness through side body engagement and standing poses.

Today’s session

In this lesson, the focus is on creating stability while exploring movement through the sides of the body. You will work with familiar standing poses and add simple side opening shapes that encourage balance and control. Move at a pace that allows you to feel grounded and supported.

As you practice, stay aware of how your breath moves through your body. Side focused poses can feel unfamiliar at first, so use your breathing to stay calm and steady. If a pose feels challenging, ease the depth and focus on maintaining smooth, relaxed breathing.

These movements help improve posture and overall body awareness. Over time, working with the side body builds strength and coordination that support many other poses in your practice.

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.