The notepad: Salina Taqi

Co-founder of YogaX and the brains behind Salina Cosmetics, shares her seven favourite yoga poses

Salina Taqi, co-founder of YogaX, Pakistan’s first hot yoga studio, and the brains behind Salina Cosmetics, shares her seven favourite yoga poses

Downward facing dog



This pose is on the top of my favourite list — my day simply can’t start without downward facing dog! Its benefits are supreme — it energises the body, gets your blood flowing to the brain, improves your memory and reduces depression.

Childs pose



This is my mid afternoon go-to pose. It stretches the hips and lengthens the back, which reduces fatigue and stress. It instantly relaxes me and improves my focus.

Chaturanga or lowered plank



This is the ultimate strengthening and toning pose! It is challenging yet very powerful. This pose tones the entire body, especially the abdominal muscles. Always remember, a strong core leads to a strong body and a strong immunity.

Twisted crescent



This is a superb pose as it aids detoxification by massaging the internal organs. The crescent strengthens and energises the body, while the twist aids in the detoxification process and improves digestion. I love this pose because it fires up the metabolic rate.

Astavakrasana or eight-angle pose



I love this arm balance! It makes me feel strong, stable and balanced. I can only achieve this pose when I feel centred and in the moment.

Updog



This pose lengthens the back, firms and tones the entire body and improves your posture. It stretches the lungs, chest, shoulders and abdomen, and can almost instantly improve the quality of your breath. It is even known for curing asthma within three to six months.

Shavasana



This pose relaxes one’s entire being. It releases every morsel of stress and fatigue away. It also calms the mind and body, and improves your concentration and blood circulation.