The previous pose can also be done at a greater distance, which will make balancing slightly tougher. Stand back to back with the backs of your heels touching or close together. Walk backwards, keeping your arms and legs long, until your torsos and arms are in a level line. P1 bends knees to bring them to the ears, bringing the shins and tops of feet to rest on the ground. Depending on your flexibility, you may need to move closer or farther away from each other. Press your upper backs press into each other and place your hands on your knees to remind you to glide your shoulder blades down your back away from your ears. Stand about two arm’s length opposite your partner and get into warrior 1 pose on the same side: Lunge forward with your left foot, bending the left knee at 90 degrees. Have her reach back and take hold of her hands, keeping her palms facing away from each other. Strengthens core, thighs, ankles and spine; stretches groin and inner thighs. This will magically bring her into a Shoulderstand. Benefits: “Shoulders away from the ears!” is a constant reminder you’ll hear during Upward Dog in yoga class, but with this pose, your partner does it all for you. Once supported in Plow, P1 enters Lotus legs, and is able to press the back body into P2’s torso to lift the arms off of the mat for upside down Levitating Lotus. The top partner can even try a handstand push-up if she's very fit.
For a fun transition from here, check out the next pose. Move more slowly up and down for a greater strengthening effect. Straighten your legs in front of you. Note: P2 can stretch further by walking the torso closer to the knees (toward P1) and lifting the hips further up, and you can even lift the up and back into Plow Pose.
Stand shoulder to shoulder, facing opposite directions. Melting Heart & Table PoseAnahatasana & Sandharasana. Ego may be reduced as consciousness recognizes itself in another incarnation. Get the latest health & fitness news, tips and tricks direct to your inbox! P1 begins lying flat on the floor, arms bent with palms upward as if entering Chaturanga – elbows glue to the side body. As a result, you’re able to access a deeper core twist while opening your torso more easily than when you’d normally have to be exerting your energy and strength maintain Chair.