A lot of people don’t do yoga because they think that they are not that flexible enough to go through the different poses in this exercise. This is understandable especially when you see yogis twisting, turning, and bending their bodies this way and that. For those who can barely touch their toes during bending, moving through the poses is going to be tough for sure. But the good news is that yoga isn’t just for those who have the ability to elongate and stretch their muscles and joints effortlessly. Even if this is your first time to do yoga, you will find that there are basic poses that can help you improve your flexibility. Sounds interesting? Well, here are a few basic poses that you can start with.

Thread the needle

This yoga pose helps increase the flexibility of your spine as well as your shoulders. You should start by going down on your hands and knees. Using your left arm, reach under your body while letting your left shoulder and left temple touch the mat. Move your right arm towards your head a bit or keep it in the same position if you like. Hold this pose for a few counts before going back to your original position. Repeat with the other side.

Cow face pose

In this pose, not only will you be able to open up your shoulders but you will also help lengthen your triceps. Start by sitting on the floor with your back straight. Now raise your right arm overhead and reach behind you just like you were trying to pat your back. Move your left hand around the lower back and try to reach your right fingers. If you can, clasp fingertips. On the other hand, if you are not that flexible yet, hold on to your shirt or use a strap to hold this pose for30 seconds. Do the same with the opposite side.

Extended side angle

If you want to work on your spine, side waist, and even your hips, this yoga pose is worth doing. From the warrior II pose, move your left leg in front of you. You need to do a side bend from your left waist with your upper body propped on your left forearm on your left thigh. Raise your right arm over head while opening your chest. Stay in this pose for a few breaths before switching sides.

Cobra pose

If you have been sitting all day in front of your computer, this yoga pose will help open your chest, shoulder, and torso. Lie on the floor facedown with arms positioned at the sides and legs together. Bring your palms on the sides of your chest with your elbows tucked in. Raise your head as well as your chest from the floor while squeezing butt muscles. This will protect the lower back from the stretch. Stretch your chest and head to the ceiling and hold this pose for about 30 seconds.