This pose is usually paired with the Cow Pose or Bitilasana (Bitilāsana) providing a gentle stretch to the spine, shoulders, and neck. This is a foundational pose that is usually done either at the beginning of the session as a warm-up or in the end, to relax the body.
Kneeling
Gate Pose (Parighasana)
Gate Pose tones and strengthens the sides of the torso including arms, armpits, lateral muscles, hips, hamstrings, and spine. It’s a great asana for those who tend to sit for long hours.
Extended Puppy Pose (Uttana Shishosana)
This asana is a combination of the Downward Facing Dog Pose and the Child’s Pose. It deeply stretches the spine, arms, shoulders, neck, abdomen, hips, and hamstrings, releasing tension from these areas, making us feel refreshed and re-energized.
Cow Pose (Bitilasana)
Cow Pose is often practiced as the counter-pose of the Cat Pose. These two poses work towards gently loosening up the spine and releasing tension in the neck and shoulders areas.
Child’s Pose (Balasana)
Balasana (Bālāsana) or Child’s Pose is a relaxing pose, which is commonly practiced as a resting pose in between more advanced asanas during a yoga session. It instantly calms the mind and relaxes the neck, back, and torso by providing a nourishing, gentle stretch throughout the body.