Recent Beginners Expert Q&A Articles

• Beginner's Expert: Natasha Rizopoulos
  

  Beginner's Expert and Ashtanga teacher Natasha Rizopoulos coaches students on all aspects of a beginning practice.
  Read More
  

• Warrior Priorities
  

  When I try to keep the outer edge of my back foot anchored to the floor in Virabhadrasana I, it rolls that hip back. Should I prioritize squaring my hips or keeping the edge of my foot on the floor?
  —Elizabeth
  Read More
  

• The Purpose of Corpse Pose
  

  What is the purpose of Corpse Pose and the best way to approach it?
  Read More
  

• Yoga Before or After Weight Loss?
  

  I am 48 years old, 80 pounds overweight, and new to this whole thing. I always wanted to begin yoga, but friends say I should forget it until I lose weight. Is this true? —Rita
  Read More
  

• Padmasana Preparation
  

  What preparation asanas do you recommend before attempting Padmasana (Lotus Pose)? I already can do Ardha Padmasana (Half Lotus Pose).
  —Ramesh
  Read More
  

• Transition From Up Dog to Down Dog
  

  In your Yoga Step-by-Step series, Upward-Facing Dog is done with the toes extended and the feet pressing into the floor. I have a difficult time making a smooth transition from Up Dog to Downward-Facing Dog when I place my feet in this position. It is easier if I keep my feet flexed and my toes on the floor during Up Dog. Do you have any suggestions for making the "rolling over the toes" transition a smooth one? —Susan
  Read More
  

• Morning Routine
  

  It is impossible for me to schedule in much yoga in the morning. What are a few poses that I can practice in a short time each morning and that can help energize my body and mind for the day?
  —Edna
  Read More
  

• Determination vs. Intention
  

  How can I make sure I practice my asanas with determination?
  —Vic from Puerto Rico
  Read More
  

• Asana by Appointment
  

  Are some poses better to do in the morning rather than in the afternoon? Child's Pose feels wonderful for me in the morning, but uncomfortable at the end of the day.
  —Raquel from Maryland
  Read More
  

• Mindfulness of the Mouth
  

  How can I keep my jaw from tightening when I hold poses or do a vinyasa sequence such as Sun Salutation?
  —Ella from Rhode Island
  Read More
  

• Chaturanga From Top to Toe
  

  Even though I've been practicing diligently, I just can't seem to get the hang of rolling over my toes in Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose). Any tips?
  —J.J. from Israel
  Read More
  

• Too Much of a Good Thing?
  

  We did Sun Salutations in a yoga class Monday evening, and when I went home, I couldn't sleep until 3 a.m. Why was I so full of energy?
  —Maria from Switzerland
  Read More
  

• Fashion for Function
  

  What should I wear to my first class? I am concerned about my large breasts and underwear showing.
  —Lisa from California
  Read More
  

• Cross-Training Compatibility
  

  Are some forms of exercise more compatible with yoga than others?
  —Ana from Washington D.C.
  Read More
  

• Pranayama Primer
  

  What is proper yoga breathing?
  Read More
  

page 1 | 2 | 3