Core Stability Yoga

August’s Theme is Core & Confidence

Focus on Stability, Self-Confidence, and Strength

Core Stability Pose- Side Plank

Our core is incredibly important; it matters for strength, stability, efficient movement, and injury prevention. It is a grouping of muscles in our trunk, pelvis, and spine that work together to keep us upright, balanced, and protected. It is more than just our abs!

Side plank builds the whole core and as with the other poses we’ve explore this month it can be done using a chair for assistance or even seated in a chair. Slow your practice down a bit and work on balance and stability by working your abs, shoulders glutes, and hip abductors. Your body will thank you for it.

Side Plank Pose- Seated in a Chair

Begin seated in a chair; feet comfortably resting on the ground, length through the spine in Mountain Pose. Shift the hips a few inches to the right so that the right hip is not fully supported by the chair and step the right leg out to the side. Try some of the below options to challenge your balance and stability.

· Bring the left hand to the seat of the chair and gently lean your upper body to the left, lengthening through the sides of the body and through the crown of the head. Option to lift the right leg slightly off the ground.

· Bring the left hand to a block on the left side of the chair. Press your hand firmly into the block lengthen through the sides of the body. Option to lift the right leg slightly off the ground.

Side Plank Pose- Standing, using a Chair for Balance

Stand on the side of a chair facing the seat. Place both hands on the seat of the chair. Step one foot back, turn the back toes away from the chair and then raise the same arm as the back foot. If you want to challenge yourself a bit more, raise the back food slightly off the ground.