Don't take the name of this position personally—it's called the Cow Face pose because, when seen from the front, the outline of the body is thought to resemble the broad mouth and narrow head of a cow. Honest.
Commonly the final posture in any yoga routine, the Corpse Pose only sounds creepy. A few minutes of "playing dead" will make you feel more energized and focused—and ready to come back to life.
The Lotus Pose is one of the classic seated meditative postures, fostering a calm, serene sense of internal connection. Eventually it'll feel like heaven—we mean, Nirvana.
The Scorpion Pose is a favorite of Cirque de Soleil performers and contortionists of all stripes, which is to say it's a very advanced position not for the faint of heart—or weak of back.
It's no surprise that this pose derives its Sanskrit name from Sarva, which means "all parts"—all yours will be challenged.
The Hero Pose looks simple enough—and is a common position for seated meditation—but don't be fooled: The stretch it requires of your knees is, well, nothing short of heroic.
Although this position is commonly called the Crow pose, its Sanskrit name literally translates as Crane. Any fowl will do: the point is that you'll be perched like a bird on a wire.
The Dancer Pose takes its name and inspiration from the Hindu god Shiva's divine jig. Master it and you'll feel like performing your own dance of joy.
No, the Cat-Cow is not a mythological creature: This pose bows the spine like an old cow and then arches it like a frightened cat. Whether you choose to meow or moo is up to you.
Doing something called the Plank pose only sounds like you'll be imitating a log lying on the ground. In fact, you'll be imitating a log propping itself up on two twigs—also known as your arms.
Done correctly, this meditation pose allows you to sit without thinking about your body for as long as you like—or at least until you start to smell dinner in the air.
Ever watch a dog stretch? Then you already have a good idea of what this pose looks like—and how handy it can be for digging up bones.
If you're a little wary of imitating an insect best known for "plagues," we understand. But the Locust Pose is great for strengthening your back and abdominals muscles—quietly.
Something called the Wheel Pose may sound too circular for your straight body to recreate, but with a little practice you'll become a much more "well-rounded" individual.
This pose, which turns you into a human archery bow, expands your chest and ribcage, and gives your entire back and spine a full backward bend. No arrows required.