The squat, not just for the gym....

Thirteen years ago, I had the privilege of traveling to China. I was struck at how straight and strong the elderly were as they walked. I was also surprised to see that the one “pose” I was warned against in my fitness classes the deep squat was the routine posture to anyone resting. It was not until about 5 years later, during my studies with Tom Gillette, I learned the importance of GARLAND POSE or Malasana.


Unlike Americans, who plop down in a chair slouched down, the Chinese assume the squat. It is a very active posture. However, once one is used to the position, it is super comfortable. Posture is improved because your back, ankles and knees are stretched. It is also an unloaded forward bend, allowing the lower back to soften and release. The Achilles tendons lengthen.

Modification is key to starting in this position. Check with a qualified yoga instructor to get the proper alignments. As with all poses, there are contraindications: knee injury/pregnancy.