Yoga Exercises - appleyoga presented by Katy Appleton

Yoga Exercises

Nostril Breathing for Calm

We all breathe. Without breath there would be no human life. However, despite it's obvious importance breathing is something many of us simply allow to happen unconsciously, as if there is no need to nurture or care for the breath. For me, breathing is like a dance, something beautiful and inspiring. Every time you breathe, you take in the essence of existance, the energy of the universe. Control of breathing concentrates the vital nerve energy, leading to increased control of the body and mind.

Sun Salutation Flow

This exercise stretches all the major muscle groups, strengthens internal organs and increases flexibility. The sun exercise is a series of postures which draws on the principles of sivananda yoga - a style of yoga which comes under the umbrella term of hatha.

Anyone looking to tone their body and enhance their well-being can practise the sun exercise. It takes about five minutes to do - and can be performed in a small space. It can be practised in the morning or the evening - and is the perfect way to start the day - or unwind after work. You do not need any special equipment and the exercise should be performed on a yoga mat or towel.

Moon Salutation Flow

This is the counterflow to the sun excercise. It is a flow to help cool and calm the body when the sun excercise would be too stimulating to the nervous system. It also includes some postures that are particularly beneficial to women during menstration, pregnancy and menopause.

This exercise stretches all the major muscle groups, strengthens internal organs and increases flexibility. Where the sun excercise energises us to face life's challenges, the moon excercise helps to reconnect us to our creative core.

Anyone looking to tone their body and enhance their well-being can practise the moon exercise. It takes about five minutes to do - and can be performed in a small space. It can be practised in the morning or the evening - and is the perfect way to start the day - or unwind after work. You do not need any special equipment and the exercise should be performed on a yoga mat or towel.