Why Practise Together?
Yoga is often a solo journey — you, your mat, your breath. But partner yoga introduces a second person into the equation, transforming practice into an experience of trust, communication, and shared vulnerability.
Partner yoga isn't just for romantic couples. It works beautifully with friends, family members, or even someone you've just met in class.
The Benefits
Physical
- Deeper stretches — a partner can safely take you beyond your solo range
- Better alignment — tactile feedback from another body
- Increased strength — supporting another person builds power
- Improved balance — counterbalancing forces create stability
Emotional
- Trust building — relying on someone requires vulnerability
- Non-verbal communication — learning to read subtle cues
- Laughter — partner yoga is inherently joyful and playful
- Connection — shared physical experience creates bonding
Research shows practising yoga in groups produces higher levels of endorphins — partner yoga takes this even further.
8 Partner Poses to Try
1. Back-to-Back Breathing
Level: Beginner | Duration: 3 minutes
Sit back-to-back, spines touching. Close your eyes and synchronise your breath. Feel your partner's ribcage expand. This single exercise creates an immediate sense of connection.
2. Partner Forward Fold
Level: Beginner | Duration: 1–2 minutes
Sit facing each other, legs wide, soles touching. Hold each other's wrists. One person folds forward while the other gently leans back.
3. Double Tree Pose
Level: Beginner | Duration: 30–60 seconds each side
Stand side by side. Each person lifts the outer leg into tree pose. Press inner hands together overhead.
4. Partner Boat Pose
Level: Intermediate | Duration: 30 seconds
Sit facing each other, knees bent, toes touching. Hold hands and lean back, then lift your feet and press soles together. Slowly straighten into a V-shape.
5. Double Downward Dog
Level: Intermediate | Duration: 15–30 seconds
Partner A in downward dog. Partner B places feet on A's lower back. A stacked downward dog that deepens the stretch for both.
6. Partner Camel
Level: Intermediate | Duration: 30 seconds
Kneel back-to-back. Both reach back and hold each other's arms, then lean into a supported backbend.
7. Trust Lean
Level: Beginner | Duration: 30 seconds each direction
Stand facing your partner, arms extended, palms touching. Slowly walk feet back. Find stillness in the lean.
8. Flying Partner Pose
Level: Advanced | Duration: 15–30 seconds
Base partner lies on their back, feet raised. The flyer extends into a flying superman/woman position.
Tips for Success
- Communicate — always check in with your partner
- Start simple — build trust before attempting advanced poses
- No forcing — both partners should feel safe and comfortable
- Laugh — it's meant to be fun
Bring a friend to Yoga Me Yoga You and try partner yoga together. Check our class timetable for the best sessions.
