When you’re just getting into yoga, all the poses might look intimidating. The best way to ease yourself into the more complicated ones is by starting with a warm-up. These poses don’t have to be boring, either. They can improve your blood circulation and help you feel healthier just by trying them out.

Activity is for everyone — you just need to find out what works best for you. Over 34 million people practice yoga, making it an immensely popular activity that can make you feel good in both mind and body. Over time, you may find yoga to be your go-to healthy activity.

1. Warrior II

This yoga pose looks simple, but it actually requires a bit of skill to pull off. Your front foot should be facing forward, while the foot in the back needs to be facing the side. You’ll stretch your back leg out as far as comfortable while bending the knee of the leg in front. Finally, stick your arms out for balance and lean into your bent knee (be sure to keep your front knee over your front foot to prevent injury!).

This pose is meant to help you with your balance while strengthening your leg muscles, which can help with any blood circulation issues you experience. Improving your circulation can lead to better overall health.  You’ll find your brain and heart functioning better while also reaping the benefits of an improved immune system. Since it doesn’t involve being on the floor, it’s an accessible pose almost anyone can do!

2. Downward-Facing Dog

This pose is one most people think of when they consider doing yoga. It’s easy to get into and it can help circulation immensely due to all the muscles it works. Because your hips will be higher than your head, your blood will flow downward toward your head.

Start on your hands and knees. Then, lift your knees up, your feet anchored on the mat or floor in place of your knees. Focus on your breathing as you move into this popular position. You’ll want to try to push your heels downward until they’re resting on solid ground. It may hurt, but you’re stretching your muscles and becoming more flexible while improving your blood flow.

3. Plow Pose

This pose might look uncomfortable at first glance, but it’s one of the more comfortable poses you can rest in. Some people may not be able to manage this pose, but if you can, it’ll be great for your flexibility and blood circulation. Start by lying flat on your back, palms on the ground. You can lift your torso upward as if you’re folding over yourself.

Ideally, your feet will rest on the ground behind your head, but it’s all right if you’re not that flexible yet. The more time you spend working on your flexibility in yoga, the sooner you’ll be able to see the results you want. Focusing on flexibility can help your muscles work better and reach their full potential. You may also minimize your risk of getting injured while working out.

4. Pigeon Pose

pigeon pose looks complicated, but it’s an easy way to open up your muscles and improve circulation in the lower half of your body. You can get into this interesting position by starting in downward-facing dog, then bringing one knee forward and resting on your leg. Make sure to bend your leg parallel to the top of your mat.

Then, extend your other leg backward. It might take a moment to settle into the position feeling correct. Once you feel like it’s right, lean forward, ensuring you stay in the proper form. This position will open your hips and help you feel looser overall while benefiting your circulation. Beginners may consider placing a yoga block or stack of books under the glute of the bent leg for support.

5. Child’s Pose

This yoga pose can be relaxing or incorporate a bit of movement. It’s a great way to relieve back pain while focusing on breathing. You may notice better blood flow in your lower half if you choose to rock back and forth in this restful position.

Even if you plan to stay entirely still in this position, it’s a great way to relieve any pain you feel. Less pain may lead to a more active lifestyle, which can also improve your blood circulation.  To take the best care of yourself and strive for a healthier lifestyle, be sure to rest just as much as you work.

Look Forward to a Brighter Future

As you strengthen your muscles, you’ll also enhance your blood flow. When you become active — even just a little bit — you’ll want to stay active and do more to improve your health.

Like any health benefit, improved circulation doesn’t happen overnight. You’ll have to build up a routine of taking care of yourself to see a difference. Remember to consult your doctor before making any significant changes.  The world of yoga waits for you to explore!

Featured image by Elina Fairytale