Beginner -- seated poses question

Yoga Discussion General Yoga
#1

Hi, I’m new to both yoga and these forums. I’m looking forward to learning a lot!

I was trying out Hatha yoga with online videos (I’ll join a class when I figure out which style I most want to try) and one video focused on seated stretching. I found myself with a slight problem when the instructor said to sit with legs extended, arms down & straight, shoulders relaxed, and hands pressing into the floor – if my arms are straight, my shoulders are either up to my ears or I’m lifting myself off of the mat.

I have long limbs and a short torso, which seems to be the problem. Do I sit on a block for these poses, or do I adjust my arms?

Thanks for your help/advice!

#2

If you are referring to Dandasana (staff or stick pose) then yes, use a block, or pillow which is my preference, to allow the arms to straighten. Check your back also to make sure it is not rounded.

And why not take classes in different styles to see which serves your needs best?

#3

My viewpoint is slightly different.

If your pelvis is able to tip forward such that the sacrum is at least 90? to the floor then taking height is counter productive. Additionally it is an interference in the process of rooting and recoil which fosters grounding and aspiration (respectively) in the student.

Without seeing your pose and going only by what you’ve shared (which is less than a shard) bend the elbows, contract the quadriceps, root the sitting bones and finger tips, move the shoulder blades into the sitting bones, and lift the sides of the waist, bottom of the belly, and energy of the kidneys.

gordon

#4

consult your teacher