Disclaimer: Yoga should only be done under the supervision of a trained professional. iDiva is not responsible for any injuries sustained due to the execution of these yoga-asanas. Anyone with injured muscles or chronic illnesses should consult a physician before trying these poses.
Malaika Arora is famous for her fit physique, and is known for posting exercise photos and videos on her Instagram profile. The star can often be seen promoting Diva Yoga, and Sarva Yoga studios in her posts. Seeing all her yoga content, us couch potatoes also feel motivated to try out some of the asanas she shares.
Now obviously, not all the asanas she does are meant for amateurs and beginners like us. But, there are still many which are great for stretching the limbs and helping one tone muscles. So, here we list those easier ones, so you can check out her profile for more, and become a world-class yogini!
1. This asana is great for those who hunch over their computers all day, like us.
Image credit: Malaika Arora via Instagram
We all know the way the back of our neck gets when we are bending the neck to read, write, or work on a computer. When one does that for the majority of the day, it can really affect one’s shoulder and neck’s posture, giving this hump-back look and leading to headaches. So, this exercise, called Bhujangasana or Cobra Pose is excellent for stretching the neck, and the stomach muscles.
2. Anyone with poor posture will benefit from this.
Image credit: Malaika Arora via Instagram
Another great pose for stretching out the whole body, especially the back and neck and legs, is this Reverse Warrior Pose or Viparita Virabhadrasana. This one is also great for improving posture if you have hunched shoulders.
3. This pose is so great for stretching out the legs and opening up the whole body
Image credit: Malaika Arora via Instagram; photography by By The Gram
Called trikonasana, this exercise pose is ideal for toning the sides and helps stretch out the legs and the spine, giving you multiple benefits. It’ll definitely make sure your legs are warmed up for leg day!
4. If you have the core strength, the Navasana will definitely give you abs
Image credit: Malaika Arora via Instagram
A difficult but rewarding exercise, this is a lot like crunches in the sense that it works out your abdominal muscles, and tones them. However, it can be painful and hard to hold at first, so don’t beat yourself up for not being able to do it the first few times. Keep trying!
5. This warrior pose is great for stretching out your legs before a leg workout
Image credit: Malaika Arora via Instagram
Before going on a run or cycling, do this yoga pose to stretch those hamstrings and warm up the body for intensive training. It stretches the hips and groins, according to Malaika’s caption, and clearly seems ideal for toning the legs.
6. Malaika recommends this one for lower back pain
Image credit: Malaika Arora via Instagram
Stretch out your whole back with this pose, which will open up tight back muscles. Called the Downward Facing Pigeon Pose, it’s good for also putting your head down and falling asleep when you’re tired from all that working out.
7. Malaika has a detailed tutorial on this stomach exercise
Image credit: Malaika Arora via Instagram; photography by By The Gram
It’s really important to follow the steps correctly while doing this exercise, so that you don’t sustain an injury. So, read Malaika’s entire post on exactly how to go about it. It will help work out your stomach muscles, your legs, and your arms. This is why yoga is famous for working out the whole body!
8. Give your thighs a workout with this squatting pose
Image credit: Malaika Arora via Instagram; photography by By The Gram
We all know squats are great for exercising your thighs given the recent obsession with having sculpted buttocks. But did you know that yogis have been doing this way before the Kardashians came onto the scene? This pose will help you exercise your legs, improving your balance, and will also target the stomach.
Aren’t we lucky to have Malaika to teach us these things?
Lead image credit: Malaika Arora via Instagram
