The spring sequence was written by Becky Lloyd and illustrated by Svenja Karstens.

Spring represents renewal, growth and the courage required to open up after winter’s season of turning inward. This sequence invites us to open the “windows” of the body — the armpits, chest and side ribs, the front thighs and pelvis, and ultimately the inner window of the heart.

Beginning with standing poses such as Tadasana, Urdhva Hastasana and Urdhva Baddangulyasana, the sequence establishes stability while gradually expanding through the side ribs and the armpit chest. Cycles of Paschima Namaskarasana and Gomukhasana arms mobilize the shoulders and shoulder blades, allowing the chest to broaden.

As the sequence progresses into upright variations of Parsvottanasana and deeper back extensions, the sternum lifts, the collarbones widen and the front thighs lengthen. The progressive use of props allows the spine to extend naturally while the chest expands more fully.

The sequence and accompanying article first appeared in the IYASE Spring 2026 Newsletter.

Becky Lloyd is the director of Audubon Yoga Studio and a Level 3 Certified Iyengar Yoga teacher.