Preventing Injury and Enhancing Strength

Alignment in yoga is key to protecting your body from injury and making your practice more effective. Proper alignment allows you to access the benefits of each pose fully.

Understand the Role of Alignment

Alignment ensures that each part of your body is working together efficiently. Whether you're in a standing pose or an inversion, aligning your joints and muscles properly will prevent strain and injury while enhancing strength.

Stack Joints to Avoid Injury

A simple rule for injury prevention is to keep joints stacked. In poses like Plank or Chair Pose, ensure your wrists are aligned under your shoulders and your knees above your ankles. This distributes your body weight evenly, reducing strain.

Micro-Bends for Joint Health

Avoid locking your joints, especially in standing poses. Keep a slight micro-bend in your knees and elbows to engage the muscles around your joints, providing stability and protection.

Use Props to Aid Alignment

Blocks and straps can be helpful tools in achieving proper alignment, especially if you’re tight in certain areas. For example, placing a block under your hand in Triangle Pose can help you keep your spine long and avoid straining your lower back.

Listen to Your Body

Alignment isn’t about forcing your body into a shape. Listen to what your body needs, and adjust your postures to maintain alignment that feels safe and strong.