Ahead of International Day of Yoga, Malaika Arora shows how to add some ‘fun’ to your workout

"Who says yoga can't be fun? Hello divas, are you ready to begin your week on a happy note?" she wrote in the caption.

The actor shared a snippet from her sessions in order to encourage others to take up yoga too. (Source: Malaika Arora/ Instagram)

Malaika Arora is a fitness icon who not only takes fitness extremely seriously but also motivates her fans and followers to prioritise theirs by working out. Proof of the same is her social media feed, where she frequently shares tips and tricks for leading a healthier life, primarily focused on how yoga promotes overall well-being.

In a similar vein, the actor shared a snippet from her sessions in order to encourage others to take up yoga too. Ahead of International Yoga Day 2023, she took to Instagram to talk about how yoga can actually be a super fun activity.

“Who says yoga can’t be fun? Hello divas, are you ready to begin your week on a happy note?” she wrote in the caption. “Let your practice be an outlet for you to celebrate your happiness and let go of the stress. And along the way, you will realise that you’ve not only challenged yourself but achieved your goals and broken a few more. Remember to love your practice and not feel compelled by it,” she added.

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In the video, Malaika can be seen doing yoga, dancing, and enjoying as she performs numerous asanas.

Contrary to popular perception of yoga being deemed boring and only for elders, Aashka Goradia Goble, yoga expert and co-founder, Renee Cosmetics said that yoga can be a source of enjoyment as it is a multifaceted practice that incorporates physical movement, mindfulness, and relaxation. “Yoga programmes frequently integrate entertaining features, such as partner postures or imaginative sequences, making them appealing to students of all ages. Exploring different postures, challenging yourself, and connecting with your breath can provide a sense of completion and delight. So, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned practitioner, yoga can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience,” she said.

To add a fun element to yoga, the expert suggested the following tips:

*Find a yoga style that suits your preferences, like Vinyasa or AcroYoga.
*Experiment with different environments, such as practicing in nature or with upbeat music.
*Join a group class or invite friends for a yoga session together.
*Incorporate playful elements like balance challenges or partner poses.
*Set goals and track your progress to stay motivated.
*Add variety by exploring different instructors or online classes.
*Embrace a light-hearted mindset and enjoy the journey of self-discovery through yoga.

There are numerous fun yoga asanas that not only provide physical benefits but also add an element of playfulness to your practice. Here are a few examples:

Vrikshasana

This pose improves balance, strengthens legs and core muscles, enhances focus, and promotes a sense of calm. (Source: Freepik)

Also known as Tree Pose, Vrikshasana represents stability, balance, and grounding. “It improves balance, strengthens legs and core muscles, enhances focus, and promotes a sense of calm,” said Goble.

Steps:
*Stand tall, and shift your weight onto one foot.
*Place the sole of the other foot on the inner thigh or calf (avoid the knee).
*Bring your hands together at your heart center.
*Find your balance and hold for several breaths.

Adho Mukha Svanasana

In English, Adho Mukha Svanasana translates to Downward Facing Dog Pose. As the name suggests, the asana resembles a stretching dog. According to Goble, the benefits of the pose include stretching and strengthening the entire body, particularly the shoulders, hamstrings, and calves. It also relieves stress and rejuvenates the mind.

Steps:
*Start on your hands and knees
*Lift your hips up and back, straightening your legs and arms, forming an inverted “V” shape.
*Press your palms into the ground. *Relax your neck and lengthen your spine.

Ananda Balasana

Ananda Balasana also refers to Happy Baby Pose as it mimics the joyousness and carefree nature of a baby. “It opens the hips and groin, releases tension in the lower back, and promotes relaxation,” said Goble.

Steps:
*Lie on your back, bend your knees into your chest, and grab the outsides of your feet.
*Gently pull your knees toward the ground, allowing them to come close to your armpits.
*Rock gently side to side to massage the spine.

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Concluding, Goble said, “Remember, while these poses can be fun, it’s important to approach them with awareness and listen to your body to prevent any strain or injury.”

(Catch us live on Indian Express’ official Instagram account on International Yoga Day (Wednesday, June 21) at 3 pm as we interact with Dr Rohit Sabharwal, Senior Faculty, Art of Living’s Sri Sri School of Yoga)