Ohm-igosh!
Partner yoga has been shown to enhance communication, build trust and improve flexibility through coordinated movement and reliance on each other during poses. Couples looking to feel a little naughty as they get a little knotty may want to try yoga in the nude to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
“By removing your clothes, you’re removing barriers and this encourages deeper intimacy and trust between couples, fostering a strong emotional bond,” said Jannica Klingborg, lead instructor at True Naked Yoga, an online yoga subscription platform.
“The practice can heighten awareness of each other’s bodies and energy, leading to improved intimacy and sexual relations through increased trust and mutual sensitivity,” she continued. “The combination of physical touch, movement and mindfulness can also significantly reduce stress and create a sense of relaxation.”
Klingborg pro-poses five naked partner positions for those looking to stretch the limits of their imagination at home.
Seated meditation
Sit with your legs crossed facing one another, with enough space between you that you can reach out and touch your partner to deepen your bond and strengthen trust.
Seated spinal twist
Sit on the ground with your legs crossed and gently rotate your torso to one side, keeping your hips grounded. This rejuvenating twist is supposed to improve spinal mobility and release muscular tension.
Seated wide-legged forward fold
One partner should lie down with their legs spread apart while the other sits across from them with their legs as far apart and tall posture.
The sitting partner should engage their core by lifting their chest and drawing their belly button in while inhaling. Then, they should gently hinge forward at the hips while exhaling, keeping their back straight and reaching for their partner’s hands.
This hip-opening move is intended to encourage mindfulness and communication.
Twin trees pose
Stand side by side with your partner with your feet flat on the floor. Lift your outside leg and put it on the inside of your thigh. Hold on to your partner and raise your hands together in a prayer posture.
There are several variations of this pose, which allows couples to practice balance and stability while fostering connection.
Child’s pose assist
End your yoga session by having one partner get into child’s pose: kneel on the floor, sit back on the heels and slowly bend forward. The other partner gently applies pressure to the hips or thighs to help deepen the stretch and release tension.
Both partners should feel connected and rejuvenated when it’s over.
How to nama-slay naked yoga
- Talk with your partner about comfort levels, boundaries and concerns before getting started.
- Establish a safe space that allows everyone to feel secure.
- Choose a warm, private and inviting place that promotes relaxation.
- Set the mood with soft lighting and music.
- Start slow, focus on your breathing and try to stay present by fully immersing yourself in the experience and letting go of distractions.
- Prioritize the connection with your partner and the sensations in your body.
- Don’t forget to laugh together. “Embrace any awkwardness,” Klingborg advised. “It’s all part of the journey, and humor can help ease tension.”
