Daniel Rich Galinson is a Plymouth, Minnesota-based national account executive with Solutran. When he is not managing and sourcing new national accounts across multiple retail markets, Daniel Rich Galinson enjoys leading a healthy, physically active lifestyle. A few of his preferred pastimes range from running to practicing yoga.
There are many physical and psychological benefits of yoga. Common benefits include increased flexibility, improved respiratory function, weight loss, and optimized cardio and circulatory health. But with so many different styles of yoga to consider, beginners may wonder where to start.
One of the single most effective poses for a first-time yogi to learn is the mountain pose or tadasana. Sometimes referred to as the “mother of all yoga poses,” tadasana is a foundational stance that promotes awareness and balance. The pose is achieved by standing straight with feet together and arms at the side, then elongating the torso and extending the arms up over the head in time with a deep breath. The arms should slowly fall back to the starting position with the exhale.
Another key pose for beginners is child’s pose or balsana. This simple pose has been associated with relaxed nervous systems, though yogis with a history of knee problems should enter into this pose carefully. Child’s pose begins in a kneeling position with the butt resting on the heels of the feet and the stomach on thighs. From here, yogis can stretch their upper body and extend their arms forward.
Finally, the downward-facing dog, or adho mukha svanasana, is an ideal pose for inexperienced yogis dealing with back pain. The pose also stretches the shoulders, arms, and hamstrings, among other muscle groups. Downward-facing dog can be completed by reaching forth, bending sharply at the waist, and placing one’s hands on the floor. Feet should be held hip-width apart, though hamstring tightness may make it difficult for some yogis to plant their feet on the ground firmly.
