Modify Poses for Knee, Hip & Ankle Support Using Props

Senior Iyengar Yoga Teacher Kathy Cook demonstrate a Yoga pose

Kathy Cook

Senior Iyengar Yoga Teacher

Aging Gracefully with Iyengar Yoga

In this class, we’ll start by sitting on the floor in various positions. I’ll show you several ways to modify and adjust postures to address different conditions like arthritis, knee tightness, or limited hip mobility.

Keep the lower chest region lifted rather than folded inward—this is why using a chair is preferable.

  • Widen the arms to the sides to open the chest
  • Use the wall to help maintain proper posture during sitting and forward bends, avoiding a rounded upper back. Focus on lifting vertically and extending the arms upward, along with side twists—these are more beneficial than forward bends.

Next, we’ll move to supine positions on the floor, using the wall and strap for support.

These various positions and props will help you find what works best for your mobility and flexibility, allowing you to practice postures with less discomfort.

Overall, we’ll focus on knee bending, groin opening, knee stretching, hamstring lengthening, broadening the back of the thighs, and expanding the chest while lifting the upper back.

This sequence includes:

Swastikasana w/variations

Virasana w/ variations

Baddha Konasana w/ variations

Upa Vista Konasana w/ variations

Suta Padangustasana 1/11

Prone Savasana

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