Would you like a yoga posture where no one knows you are practicing yoga? Something you could do in public while waiting for the bus, standing in a grocery line or waiting your turn at the bank? Yes, the pose exists; it’s called “tadasana,” in traditional yoga terms, and “mountain pose” in more picturesque language.

Upon casual observation, people would think you were just standing. However, a correctly performed standing position is a strong yoga posture. Simply stand and assume the strength of a mountain. You can’t push a mountain over so stand squarely on both feet. No slouching. Weight is distributed equally––not shifted to one leg where you can easily be knocked off balance. Feet can be touching or apart 3 to 5 inches to assist stability. Lift the toes off the mat, spread them and then lower one-by-one to have more surface of the feet touching the floor. Crown of head reaches to the ceiling and tailbone extends towards the ground. Now, stack the blocks––head in alignment with shoulders, shoulders over hips, hips over ankles. Chin parallel to the floor. Thigh muscles firmed and gently turned toward each other. Knee caps lifted. Arms hang loosely at the sides.

Now you are standing strong as a mountain, with every muscle in your body engaged. Follow these instructions and no one will call you a push over. Your mother had it right when she told you to stand up straight; now you know how, and no one will know you are practicing yoga.

I like it! Thanks, Nicola - I hear the teacher in you in your message and she's not done teaching yet! Blessings, Cheryl