You've probably heard of downward dog before, even if you're not familiar with yoga. Whether you're a yoga fan or a beginner, you should know these animal-named asanas and definitely give them a try! By the way, these exercises are also a great first experience with yoga for children .
Why do yoga asanas even bear the name of an animal?
Asana means seat or posture. In this yoga exercise, the posture and movement of the body are derived from that of the animal. Furthermore, the exercise also reflects the animal's characteristics. This makes the yoga poses equally interesting for adults and children. Yoga beginners, both young and old, can easily memorize the poses and are thus introduced to yoga in a playful way. And especially in the hectic daily lives of even young children, this form of relaxation is ideal. The exercises can be wonderfully performed together or with the whole family.
The most popular animal asanas to copy
First, find a quiet spot where you can practice your meditation. Perhaps outside in the garden if the weather is nice, or in a quiet room where you can light an incense stick and create the right atmosphere. Since some of the exercises are performed on the floor, we recommend using a yoga mat . Let's get started!
The Dog ( Adho Mukha Svanasana)
Let's start with probably the most well-known exercise, Downward-Facing Dog. The starting position is on all fours. Now we point our tiptoes and push our legs through, lifting our bottoms high in the air. The head is lowered. Viewed from the side, Downward-Facing Dog looks like a triangle. This asana strengthens and stretches the back, legs, arms, and shoulders. Mentally, it promotes harmony and balance.
The Cat (Majariasana)
This yoga exercise takes its namesake as a particularly vivid example. With the cat, you begin in a quadruped position, just like with the dog. Now arch your back, lowering your head. Then, in a smooth movement, move from the arch to a slight arch, stretching your head upwards. This exercise is truly beneficial for your back. The cat pose is therefore used not only in yoga but also in many gymnastics classes. You'll also be practicing the cat's flexibility and grace.
The Cobra (Bhujangasana)
This yoga pose begins in a prone position. Make sure your legs are together and your hands are under your shoulders. Now lift your upper body off the floor, imagining the crown of your head reaching toward the ceiling (or sky). This animal pose strengthens your back and also supports your intestines by applying pressure to your stomach. It also gives you new energy and a feeling of freedom.
The Camel (Ustrasana)
Begin this yoga exercise in a kneeling position. First, place your hands on your lower back and bend backward slightly. This is the preliminary exercise. Now extend your arms upward and place one hand after the other behind you on the soles of your feet or calves. This pose opens your heart and chest and gives you joy in life.
Animal Yoga for Children
Practicing meditation and, for example, doing some yoga in the evening to relax is also ideal for children. They gain a better sense of their bodies and can internalize the characteristics of animals. If your favorite animal is your dog, yoga is twice as fun!
Last but not least – don’t forget to breathe!
A central element of yoga and meditation is breathing. Just as body and mind are meant to be in harmony, breathing and movement are also coordinated. In Pranayama, special attention is paid to breathing exercises.
What's your favorite yoga or meditation exercise? Is one of the animal asanas your favorite? Share it with the Yogabox community!
