Far more than any other type of exercise, flexibility is important to making your yoga routines as effective as possible. With a full range of motion, it will be easier to perform all the exercises and poses of your yoga routine. While yoga will naturally develop your flexibility as you continue to practice it, it is often a good idea to supplement your regular yoga routine with couple of flexibility exercises. In this article, we will discuss some of the basics to improving your flexibility over time.
Just as with yoga, proper breathing is important as you stretch to increase your flexibility. Breathing calms your body, and allows your muscles and joints to relax in preparation for stretching. It also promotes the circulation of blood carrying oxygen to the muscles, allowing them to stretch further. To breathe properly, allow the stomach to expand rather than raising your upper chest. Exhale slowly, and allow yourself to feel the tension being released from your body as you exhale. Maintaining control of your breathing will also serve as great practice for proper breathing in your yoga routine.
