5 Beginner Yoga Poses to Boost Your Wellness Journey

Everyone can use a bit more Zen in their life, so we encourage a calm and relaxing environment here at our apartments in Chicago. With our newly remodeled quiet yoga and meditation space, we hope to inspire community members to enjoy a more reflective way of life. With that in mind, we offer these beginner foundational yoga postures and motions.

1. Mindful Breathing Practice

As the Sanskrit proverb goes, “Breath is life, and breathing well promotes longevity on earth.” Apparently, abdominal breathing triggers a relaxation response in the body as it slows respiration, boosts energy and reduces one’s concept of perceived pain and stress. Simply taking time to mindfully breathe — breathing in the goodness and expelling the "bad" — is an easy way to recharge any time of day.

2. Flex and Flow Motions

By taking on a posture such as Cat/Cow, you can gently circle the wrists and ankles, point the toes and flex those knee joints. While the motions aren’t complex or fancy, they do help you reconnect with the rhythm and flow of the energy force surrounding us. The body in turn stimulates the lymphatic system, warms the muscles and alleviates mental tension and stagnation.

3. Mountain Pose

Also known as Tadasana, the mountain pose simply involves standing on the toes and reaching as high to the sky as possible. This opens the lungs and pathways to the meridians where negative thoughts, energy and stress are often harbored. This correctional posture keeps us mindful that by simply being in "balance," we can stave off numerous ailments as we age.

4. Standing Balance Poses

By incorporating Mountain Pose into your routine, you will increase spinal flexibility. If you need a more intense back-stretching yoga position, Eagle Pose and Standing Tree are more advanced body manipulations ideal for core work and relaxation. You can gently move the body down in a crescent-moon-shaped bending pose in alternating breaths to increase body awareness and mental focus, and to challenge those core muscles.

5. Downward Facing Dog

This classic hatha yoga position creates a sense of harmony between the lower and upper body, as you place yourself on hands and knees and allow the chest to open while bending forward with gentle stretches. Easily modified to suit anyone’s age or current physical condition, downward facing dog promotes mental acumen and whole-body flexibility.

Looking for Chicago Apartments?

Find a new home here at River Park North Apartments in Chicago, Illinois, where you can take respite in our private community yoga studio. Contact us today to learn more about our floor plans and availability.