ANDREA - a full time Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi instructor.

I fell in love with yoga over seven years ago, when I got a Nintendo DS and bought a game called Let's Yoga. From then, I began 'playing' yoga everyday, sometimes twice a day. At first, the practice was more physical for me, but after few months I started to really count on yoga to bring me a sense of calm during especially chaotic days. Soon after, I began recognizing the benefits of a regular asana and meditation practice and continued to incorporate yoga daily - not just during times of chaos. I found myself feeling more energized, more compassionate, happier, and with more awareness. Now, I teach full-time and couldn't be happier to do what I love. What began as a physical practice for strength and flexibility quickly became a lifestyle. I teach my students to take their yoga off the mat and apply the principles learned in the class to their lives outside of the studio. I do not only teach my philosophy, I live it.

Thursday, 5 December 2013

Archer Pose II (Var.)

Archer Pose II (Var.) / Akarna  Dhanurasana II
(ack-are-NAH don-your-AHS-anna)
Akarna= Near the ear
Dhanu= Bow

1. Begin by sitting in Dandasana, legs extended out straight in front of you. Take your right leg with both your hands and place it over your right shoulder.

2. Take your left arm and grab onto the outside edge of your right foot. Straighten your right arm and place it on the ground palm facing down a few inches forward of your hip.

3. Exhale and begin to straighten the right leg completely. Keep both legs engaged and use the pressure against your right shoulder to help you lift and keep your chest rotated open. Once your leg is straight, drop it down a couple of inches so that it is approximately at a 45 degree angle with the ground.

4. When you feel stable in the pose, drop your left arm beside you and rest it on the ground.

5. Keep your gaze forwards. Maintain the pose for up to 30 seconds . Exhale, come down slowly and practice the other leg.

Benefits
- Stretches the hamstrings, groin and hip flexors
- Stretches open the chest and shoulders
- Strengthens the arm and legs

Cautions
- Shoulder Injury
- Ankle injury
- Asthma
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