15 Yoga Poses for Total Body Strength, Flexibility, and Transformation
Ever rolled your eyes at those fit moms in yoga videos, wondering how they got there? Yeah, that was me too—until I gave it a shot and saw the results. Here are 15 yoga poses that transformed my body.
1. Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
This pose became my go-to for stretching out my entire body. It strengthened my arms, legs, and shoulders while improving my flexibility.
2. Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II)
Warrior II worked wonders on my legs and core. Holding this pose built stamina and sculpted my thighs and glutes.
3. Plank Pose (Phalakasana)
The plank pose turned out to be a fantastic full-body workout. It toned my abs, arms, and shoulders while improving my overall stability.
4. Tree Pose (Vrksasana)
Tree pose helped me with balance and core strength. Standing on one leg forced my abs and legs to work harder, improving my stability and focus.
5. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)
Bridge pose did amazing things for my glutes and lower back. It also helped open up my chest and shoulders, counteracting all those hours spent hunched over screens.
6. Child’s Pose (Balasana)
This resting pose became my sanctuary for stretching my back and hips. It’s a great way to relax while gently stretching my muscles.
7. Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)
Triangle pose was a game-changer for my waistline. It stretched and strengthened my legs, while also giving my obliques a good workout.
8. Boat Pose (Navasana)
Boat pose targeted my abs like nothing else. Holding this pose required serious core strength, and over time, it gave me a much stronger midsection.
9. Camel Pose (Ustrasana)
Camel pose helped open up my chest and improve my posture. It stretched my entire front body, which felt especially great after a long day of sitting.
10. Chair Pose (Utkatasana)
Chair pose was my secret weapon for toned legs and a stronger core. Holding this squat-like pose worked my thighs, calves, and abs intensely.
11. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)
These gentle stretches kept my spine flexible and helped ease any back pain. The rhythmic movement between these poses was a great way to start or end my practice.
12. Crow Pose (Bakasana)
Crow pose built serious upper body and core strength. Balancing on my hands challenged me in new ways and boosted my confidence as I improved.
13. Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)
Pigeon pose was a lifesaver for my tight hips. It deeply stretched my hip flexors and glutes, releasing built-up tension from sitting too much.
14. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
This pose stretched my entire back and hamstrings. Over time, it improved my flexibility and relieved tension in my lower back.
15. Corpse Pose (Savasana)
Savasana might look easy, but it taught me the importance of relaxation and mindfulness. Ending my practice with this pose helped me absorb the benefits of all the hard work.
Hate Me or Join Me on the Mat
I used to scoff at yoga, but these poses transformed my body and mindset. Now, I’m one of those moms who can’t stop raving about it. Hate me or join me—either way, these yoga poses can help you too.
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