It’s amazing how much you can learn by doing a yoga pose against the wall. It takes the balance issue out of the equation and really helps you focus on alignment. And, this “tool” can be used by anyone- even those of you are experienced in yoga. For me, particularly in the tougher poses such as triangle or half moon pose, I can feel where my body should be in space.

The following are just a few examples of how I am practicing yoga at home…

Note: I am NEW to yoga and may be completely WRONG. I am simply sharing the journey.

Working towards, Pincha Mayurasana {head should be off the floor and the block is turned the wrong way}: I just learned how to get up in this pose on Sunday with my teacher assisting. Now, looking at it, I am nowhere near the correct position or alignment. Shoulders should be parallel and kept engaged. Tummy should be tucked in and the legs should be completely engaged are reaching towards the ceiling. {not to be tried at home}

Sirsasana, is the one I can do. It seems to be the easiest and offers a wide base of support- so with the wall, I am able to get up. See video below for complete instructions…

One of my least favorites, Trikonasana. My front leg is still fairly annoyed anytime I get in a straight leg pose, however, with a ton of effort, I am teaching my quadricep to engage and to put more pressure in my feet. There is still a lot of space to be found in my torso, too.

Ardha Chandrasana. Great pose to open the hip flexors if you are tight like me!! I really enjoy the balance poses this one in particular.

There are TONS of poses you can do at home with the use of the wall.

Puppy Dog which is basically downward facing dog pose with your hands on the wall.

Utthita Hasta Padangustasana Hand to Big Toe Pose with a strap

Tadasana (Mountain Pose)

Other Resources:

Sage Rountree’s Yoga for Athletes book and podcasts.