A Soft Approach to Sun Salutations: Embrace the Chair Variation

Today’s practice is all about balance—both physically and in the way we nurture ourselves to show up. We’re diving into a familiar sequence, the Sun Salutation, and adapting it with the powerful addition of a chair. This gentle chair yoga standing variation transforms the flow, making it accessible to all, no matter where you are in your practice or how you’re feeling.

I know each of us is on a unique path and even our own paths are not a straight line, which is why I love offering options that adapt to how we show up each day. Last week, we explored the traditional standing Sun Salutation, and today, we're trying a supportive chair yoga version. It's a perfect choice for those low-energy mornings or when you want a gentler way to start the day. And if you’re like me, sometimes it feels so good to lean into a bit of support—literally!

This supported Sun Salutation begins with a deep inhale as you reach your arms skyward. Feel the openness in your chest as you lift, inviting energy and welcoming in a sense of readiness. As you exhale, gently hinge forward, bringing your hands to rest on the chair. Let go of any lingering tension, allowing gravity to ease your spine and soften your shoulders. This forward fold offers a moment of relaxation—an opportunity to release and let go.

Next, inhale as you look up with a flat back, feeling the stretch along your spine as you lift your gaze. Here, supported by the chair, you can find both alignment and focus. Then, as you step your feet back and bend your elbows to lower, engage your core, feeling stability and gentle strength through your arms and torso. The chair offers a steady foundation, giving you the space to build resilience and balance.

Transitioning into a standing downward-facing dog with your hands on the chair, enjoy the subtle yet invigorating stretch along the backs of your legs and through your spine. Breathe deeply, embracing this moment of grounded expansion. Notice how each part of your body aligns and supports the whole, working together in harmony.

As you step forward and fold again, pause for a moment of gratitude—for the breath, the body, and the simple act of being present. With your next inhale, reach the arms skyward once more, lifting through your chest and opening to the possibilities of the day ahead. Bring your hands to your heart, setting an intention or simply feeling the steady rhythm of your breath.

Starting the day with even one, three, or five rounds of these chair-supported Sun Salutations can cultivate ease and readiness. This variation is a gentle yet meaningful way to greet the day, offering just the right amount of support whenever you need it. So, I invite you to join me—see how it feels to ease into the day with this practice. Remember, it’s not about perfection but finding what feels right for you.

Namaste.

*This is the second blog in a 3-part series. Click here to read Blog 1.

Click here to explore what it would mean to take gentle yoga and chair yoga classes on a regular and consistent basis with the Unlimited Yoga & Self Care Membership, “Align Your Body, Align Your Life.”