Yoga

Yoga Asanas Names With Pictures: Easy Guide

Illustration of a person balancing in tree pose, one foot resting on the inner calf and palms joined at the chest

Yoga poses are called asanas (yoga postures). Each one has a Sanskrit name and an English name. This guide lists easy poses for beginners and shows you how to learn their names with pictures.

By the Prana Path editorial team · 17 October 2026

Reviewed by the Prana Path editorial team · Last reviewed 17 October 2026
This is general wellness information, not medical advice. Read our health disclaimer.

What are yoga asanas?

An asana (yoga posture) is a shape you hold with your body and your breath. Yoga in the United States often focuses on postures, pranayama (breath practice) and dhyana (meditation) ^[1]. There are many yoga styles. Some are gentle and some are hard work ^[1]. Beginners can start with the gentle ones.

Why learn the names with pictures?

A picture helps you see where your arms, legs and head go. The name helps you find the pose again later. Look at the picture first, then read the steps. A mirror can help you check your shape. Research suggests yoga may support stress relief, sleep and balance, so a steady habit can be a kind goal ^[1].

Standing poses for beginners

Standing poses build a calm, steady base. Tadasana (Mountain Pose) is the simplest. You stand tall with your feet under your hips and your arms by your sides. Vrikshasana (Tree Pose) is a good next step. Our Tree Pose (Vrikshasana) page shows it step by step. Balance practice is one area where yoga may help ^[1].

Floor and seated poses

Floor poses feel safe because the ground holds you. Sukhasana (Easy Pose) is a simple cross-legged seat. Balasana (Child's Pose) is a resting pose where you fold forward over your knees. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) lifts your chest while your legs stay on the mat. See our Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana) page for the steps. Move gently and stop if anything hurts, because yoga can be physically demanding for some people ^[1].

Add breath and stillness

Poses feel better when you breathe slowly. Breath practice and meditation are part of yoga, along with the postures ^[1]. Try Box Breathing (Sama Vritti) before you begin. Our Bee Breath (Bhramari) page is another gentle choice. After your poses, rest in Savasana (Corpse Pose) and lie still for a few minutes. Studies suggest yoga may help with stress, so a calm ending suits the practice ^[1].

Balance and moderation

The Bhagavad Gita (an ancient Indian text) talks about balance in daily life. In verses 6.16 and 6.17, it says yoga suits people who avoid too much and too little. That includes eating, sleeping and effort. You can use this idea on your mat. Do not push into a pose that feels too strong. Gentle, regular practice is a wise path, and a doctor can advise you if you have health concerns ^[1].

Try it: simple steps

Pick one pose from the picture list.
Read its name and look at the picture.
Set up your feet, hands or knees as shown.
Breathe slowly through your nose.
Hold the pose for a few easy breaths.
Come out of the pose slowly.
Rest, then try the next pose.

Questions people ask

What are the easiest yoga asanas for beginners?

Tadasana (Mountain Pose), Sukhasana (Easy Pose) and Balasana (Child's Pose) are easy to learn. They need little strength. Start with these and add new poses slowly.

How many yoga asanas are there?

No one number is agreed on. Many styles and teachers use different poses and names. A small set of ten to fifteen poses is plenty for a beginner.

Do I need to know the Sanskrit names?

No. English names work well at first. Learning Sanskrit names is a nice extra. It helps you follow classes and books from India.

Is yoga safe for everyone?

Yoga can be gentle, but it can also be hard on the body [1]. Move slowly and stop if you feel pain. Talk to your doctor first if you have a health problem.