Hello Yoga: 7 Top Yoga Positions for Beginners

Written by: Elena Paxton - Alchemist + Co

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Time to read 5 min

Embarking  on your yoga journey can feel like diving into a vast ocean of postures and philosophy. But no worries, we're here to guide you through some foundational poses that are both beginner-friendly and deeply beneficial.

 

The benefits of yoga:

  • Physical well being by increasing flexibility and strength

  • Mental health by reducing stress and anxiety levels, promoting better sleep, and improving focus, concentration, and mindfulness 

  • Holistic health boosts immune function and vitality, supports detoxification and circulation while cultivating a sense of inner peace and well-being

Take a deep dive into the 7 top yoga positions for beginners with one of our favorite yogi's Yoga With Adriene.

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The 7 Easiest Yoga Positions For Beginners

1. Mountain Pose (Tadasana)
 

  • Stance: Stand tall, feet together.
  • Arms: Relaxed at your sides.
  • Gaze: Straight ahead.

Story: Imagine the majestic mountains that stand tall, unaffected by the changing weather. Tadasana is named after these stable giants. Historically, yogis believed this pose imbibes the stillness of mountains.

Role & Benefits: Mountain Pose is more than just standing. It’s about grounding oneself. This pose:

  • Teaches proper posture.
  • Aligns the spine.
  • Cultivates a sense of inner and outer balance.

Yoga Mountain Pose Tadasana
Yoga for beginners - Alchemist + Co

Pros:

  • Foundation Builder: Helps to set the right posture for many other poses.
  • Awareness Enhancer: Cultivates mindfulness, particularly about posture and alignment.
  • Foot Strengthener: Engages the muscles in the feet, building strength.

Cons:

  • Subtle: Some may find it too basic or underestimate its importance.
  • Balance: Those with balance issues may find it challenging initially.

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2. Tree Pose (Vrksasana)
 

  • Stance: One foot on the opposite inner thigh.
  • Arms: Raised overhead, palms touching.
  • Gaze: Fixed on a point.

Story: The pose emulates the grace and stillness of trees. Trees, vital for life, symbolize growth, stability, and grounding.

Role & Benefits: The Tree Pose is a balance challenge.

  • Strengthens the legs.
  • Cultivates focus.
  • Nurtures mental and physical equilibrium.

Yoga Tree Pose Vrksasana
Yoga for beginners - Alchemist + Co

Further Readings

→ How to choose the Yoga Mat based on your yoga level?

→ How to master the Yoga Hardest positions?

"Yoga does not just change the way we see things, it transforms the person who sees."

B.K.S Iyengar

3. Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
 

  • Stance: Hands and feet on the mat.
  • Body: Form an upside-down "V".
  • Head: Between your arms.

Story: Picture a dog stretching after a nap; that's the essence of this pose. It bridges the gap between standing and floor postures, providing a full-body stretch.

Role & Benefits: Downward Dog isn't just about the stretch.

  • Strengthens the arms and legs.
  • Enhances spinal flexibility.
  • Energizes the body.

Yoga for beginners - Alchemist + Co

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4. Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)
 

  • Stance: Lie flat, face down.
  • Arms: Under shoulders.
  • Upper body: Lifted, gazing upwards.

Story: This pose mimics a serpent raising its hood, ready to strike. Ancient yogis believed it awakens the 'Kundalini' energy at the base of the spine.

Role & Benefits: The Cobra isn't just about the backbend.

  • Opens the chest and shoulders.
  • Invigorates the spine.
  • Boosts digestion with the front body stretch.

Yoga Cobra Pose Bhujangasana
Yoga for beginners - Alchemist + Co
Mother and child doing yoga Cobra Pose
Yoga for beginners - Alchemist + Co

5. Child’s Pose (Balasana)
 

  • Stance: Knees wide, big toes touching.
  • Upper body: Bow forward, arms outstretched.
  • Head: Resting on the floor.

Story: Balasana draws its name from the Sanskrit word 'Bala' meaning child. It embodies the fetal position, reminding practitioners of the comfort and peace from our earliest days.

Role & Benefits: Child's Pose is not just a resting posture.

  • Offers deep relaxation to the mind.
  • Stretches the back.
  • A refuge between intense postures.

"The yoga pose you avoid the most you need the most."

B.K.S Iyengar

6. Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)
 

  • Stance: Wide-legged, one foot turned out.
  • Upper body: Leaning to the side.
  • Arm: Raised towards the sky.

Story: The triangle, a geometric shape representing stability and strength, is the heart of this posture. Trikonasana captures the essence of balance in both body and mind.

Role & Benefits: More than just a side stretch, the Triangle Pose:

  • Engages the entire body.
  • Amplifies leg and core strength.
  • Boosts digestion with a side-twist motion.
Yoga Triangle Pose Trikonasana
Yoga for beginners - Alchemist + Co

Further Readings

→ How to choose the Yoga Mat based on your yoga level?

→ How to master the Yoga Hardest positions?

"The yoga pose you avoid the most you need the most."

B.K.S Iyengar

7. Corpse Pose (Savasana)
 

  • Stance: Lying flat on your back.
  • Arms and legs: Relaxed and apart.
  • Eyes: Closed.

Story: Despite its morbid name, Savasana symbolizes the rebirth after the 'death' or end of a yoga practice. It's a moment of reflection, assimilation, and profound rest.

Role & Benefits: Savasana is more than just lying down.

  • Deeply relaxes the entire body.
  • Calms the central nervous system.
  • Provides space for the body to integrate the benefits of the practice.
Yoga Corpse Pose Savasana
Yoga for beginners - Alchemist + Co

Conclusion

Embarking on the yoga journey with these seven foundational poses not only builds physical strength and flexibility but also connects you with centuries-old stories and philosophies. Yoga is not just about the poses; it's about the journey within, connecting the mind, body, and spirit. Equip yourself with the right products, and you’re all set to deepen this age-old practice.

The essentials of seven foundational yoga poses, each rooted in history and rich in benefits.

The importance of aligning mind, body, and spirit through yoga, as emphasized by instructor Maya Patel.

Recommended products to support and deepen your beginner yoga journey.

If you want to discover candles to help ease your anxiety and incorporate yoga for beginners, you can check out more on our store

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The Author: Elena Paxton

Elena Paxton is a dedicated yoga instructor with over a decade of experience guiding students on their wellness journey. Trained in traditional Indian yoga practices, she emphasizes the fusion of mind, body, and spirit in every session. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I hold each pose?

For beginners, 15-30 seconds is ideal. As you progress, aim for 1-2 minutes.

What attire is best for practicing yoga?

Opt for stretchy, breathable fabrics. Yoga pants, fitted tees, or tank tops work great.

Can I incorporate these poses into my daily routine?

Definitely! A daily practice, even if short, can offer immense benefits.

A pose feels too difficult. What should I do?

Always listen to your body. Use props like blocks or straps for support, and consider modifications

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