Give it a tri-angle.

Many yogis, I'm no exception, seek ninja-like agility and ultimate core control.  We dream of taking handstand and transitioning to firefly through an atmosphere of molasses.

Ok, enough with the imagery.  Let's get to basics. Nothing is as important as alignment and core. And, you're never going to find stability in arm balances and inversions without continually fine-tuning your ability on two feet.  So, let's start with triangle.

Begin with a wide stance and arms extended.  Pivot your front foot forward so that your heel bisects the arch of your back foot.  Keep your arms firm as your reach far forward, then tilt your arms to become perpendicular to the ground.

Develop into this pose by pulling your bottom hip forward and top hip back. Engage your inner thighs and pull your top ribs back in if they've popped out.  Retracting flared-out top ribs will extend your spine, stabilize your core, and create a stronger line of energy from your hips through the crown of your head.

I've found that Triangle and it's cousin Extended Side Angle pose build the core strength necessary to find more advanced postures. Plus, this pose will help you look better naked. No joke.

Ultimately, success in your body or mind is only found through strong fundamentals. So, stop reading and get to your mat.

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