Accept it. The world's visual definition of yoga is a person doing difficult body contortions. Before beginning in yoga, it is important to know the 3 states in yoga: advanced, intermediate and the beginner levels. So which one do we start with? The basic level of course!. Even with basic poses, it appears that you must have mushy bones to be able to perform the exercises. Luckily, that is no longer the situation! Below are some great beginner yoga exercises and how you should perform them so your yoga experience is fun rather than painful

1. The Cobra- Among the most elementary of yoga poses is the Cobra. This will stretch your spine and arms. To perform this stetch correctly, the individual must lay down on their stomach while at the same time keep their legs next to each other. Now, completely extend your arms. By doing this, you will be opening up your chest and your shoulders at the same time. Also at the same time you should have your elbows close to your body. Everytime you do this, your shoulders should be relaxed and not tensed up. Your legs should be on the ground at all times. 3 to 5 reps should be about right for any yoga beginners.

2. The Cat- If you would like to fully stretch your abdomen, this pose will certainly help you out Start this pose off by going down to your hands and knees, like a dog or cat. Maintain a straight alignment with your head, neck and spine. Now, arch up your back to make an upside down "U" with your back. Now, bring your back and spine downwards to form a "U", opposite of what you just did. Then slowly go back to the original position. Be sure to breath consistantly deep during the entire exercise

3. The Push-up- To strengthen the legs, shoulders and arms, this is the perfect pose. Five to Ten repetitions of this pose should be good. To start, have your hands facing forward with your fingers spread and your arms in. Make sure your spine is aligned in a way that your entire body is straight. Keep your legs and belly tightened up while you are in motion. Lower your body slowly when you bend your elbows. Hold this position for several seconds. Now repeat this again, keeping in mind how many reps you need to do.

4. The Dolphins- The upper body typically gets the most benefits from carrying out this pose. To start, place yourself in the 'plank' posture. Hold for 5 seconds then push your glutes upward. Be sure that your entire back and legs are in as straight of a position as possible. Now go back to the starting position and proceed to do ten to fifteen repetitions.

5. The Chair- This is a pose full of power which targets the spine and legs. In fact, this pose is very similar to what most people know as a squat. For this pose to be effective, you will need to hold it for up to 60 seconds! To begin this position, go to a squatting stance and then proceed to lean forward using your torso as much as possible. Like most other yoga poses, your spine and head should be as straight as possible. Raise your arms while keeping your stomach taut. Assume the shape of a chair, with your knees bent but not beyond the toes. Also, make sure to keep your heels flat on the ground. Hold as instructed, and that's it! Repeat this as much as you want.

Repeating these poses will form a habit for you, so keep this article in store to refer to. Also keep in mind that the relaxing of the senses and of the human mind is not necesarily something that can be learned. It all has to come naturally. In addition, yoga and meditation becomes much easier when you have a friend or family member who is willing to practice with you. Now it's time to get practicing rookie! So go get a yoga mat for yourself and a friend, and get practicing today!

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