Anantasana
This is a pose named after the sleeping position of Lord Vishnu.
Ardha Halasana - The Half-Plough Pose
"Ardha" means 'half' and 'Hala' means 'plough' in.
Ardha Matsyendrasana - The Half-Spinal Twist
"Ardha" means "half" in Sanskrit. Since the full posture is difficult to be practiced, the half-posture, which is easier, is followed widely. This posture was first promoted by the great Yogi Matsyendranath, one of the founders of Hatha Yoga, and hence the name.
Ardha Padmasana - Half-Lotus Pose
"Ardha" means "half" and "Padma" means "lotus" in Sanskrit. Those who are unable to assume the full Padmasana posture using both legs as described above owing to the stiffness of their legs or bulky thighs may begin practicing with one leg at a time alternately until they are able to develop the full posture. With the practice of this asana daily, they will be able to take that posture for a long time without discomfort and switch on to the full Padmasana posture after sufficient practice.
Ardha Shalabhasana - Half-Locust Pose
"Shalabha" means "locust" in Sanskrit. The final position of this asana resembles a locust when it lowers its head to eat and raises its tail. Hence, the name. 'Ardha' means 'half' in Sanskrit.
Baddha Konasana
"Baddha" means "locked-up" and "kona" means "angle" in Sanskrit.
Baddha Padmasana - The Locked Lotus Pose
"Baddha" means "bound' or "locked-up" in Sanskrit. The limbs of the body (both arms and legs) are firmly 'locked-up' and immobilized in this posture so as to give it steadiness. In this posture, the big toes are grasped by the fingers with arms crossed from behind.
Bhadrasana - The Locked Lotus Pose
"Bhadra" means 'beneficial' in Sanskrit.
Bhujangasana - Cobra Pose
"Bhujanga" means "cobra" in Sanskrit. This asana is called "Bhujangasana" as the raised trunk, neck and head while practicing it resemble a cobra rearing its hood and about to strike, while the joined and stretched legs resemble its tail.
