Yoga isn’t just for acrobats or contortionists. Even though Instagram might make it look like you need to twist into crazy shapes to practice, that’s not the case. The main goal of yoga is to improve flexibility, so don’t worry if you’re not naturally bendy.
Yoga is a holistic practice that stretches your muscles and tissues, reduces tension, and helps your joints move more freely. It also makes you more aware of your body, so you can identify areas that need extra attention.
There are plenty of yoga poses perfect for beginners who aren’t very flexible. Here are ten great yoga poses to help you improve your flexibility.
1. **Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)** – A foundational pose that stretches and strengthens your whole body.
2. **Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)** – This is great for beginners to strengthen the core and increase flexibility.
3. **Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II)** – A pose that stretches the spine and enhances overall flexibility.
4. **Child’s Pose (Balasana)** – Helps create joint stability and relieves muscle tension.
5. **Tree Pose (Vrksasana)** – Builds balance, confidence, and helps center your mind.
6. **Butterfly Pose (Baddha Konasana)** – Opens the inner thighs and strengthens the legs.
7. **Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana)** – Stretches, lengthens, and strengthens the body.
8. **Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)** – A simple backbend that benefits the hips and hamstrings.
9. **Cow Face Pose (Gomukhasana)** – Great for the shoulders, upper back, and arms, releasing tension.
10. **Corpse Pose (Savasana)** – A relaxing pose that stretches, opens, and resets the whole body.
Don’t let inflexibility hold you back. Start practicing yoga to greatly enhance your flexibility and joint mobility.
