‘Show prep’: Dua Lipa reveals she stays stage-ready through a comprehensive stretching and brick yoga routine

Brick yoga is a practice that incorporates yoga blocks to enhance flexibility, improve alignment, and deepen stretches while providing support and stability in various poses. To understand the benefits of this practice and how it can enhance mobility and endurance, indianexpress.com spoke to an expert.

Benefits of stretching and brick yoga

Sadhna, pranic healer and meditation teacher at Herenow Official, says, “Stretching and brick yoga are excellent ways to enhance flexibility, prevent injuries, and improve overall performance stamina. For an artist like Dua Lipa, who performs high-energy routines, these practices help keep muscles limber and reduce the risk of strains or tightness. Dynamic stretching before a performance warms up the muscles, increasing blood flow and mobility, while post-performance static stretching aids in muscle recovery and relaxation.”

 

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She continues, “Brick yoga, specifically, helps deepen stretches and build core stability, which is crucial for maintaining posture and balance during long performances. The added support of yoga blocks allows for controlled movements, reducing strain while maximising muscle engagement. This combination of flexibility and endurance training ensures that performers can move fluidly on stage without fatigue setting in too quickly.”

How can beginners safely incorporate it into their fitness routines?

Brick yoga is a great way to make yoga more accessible while also deepening the practice for advanced practitioners. “Using yoga blocks provides added support, which helps maintain proper alignment in poses, reduces strain on joints, and allows for a greater range of motion without overextending the muscles,” reveals Sadhna.

Beginners can start by incorporating blocks into foundational yoga poses, she adds, such as using them under the hands in a forward fold or beneath the hips in seated stretches. It’s important to listen to the body and avoid forcing movements beyond a comfortable range. Over time, as flexibility and strength improve, reliance on the blocks can be adjusted accordingly.

Precautions to take before practicing extreme stretches and brick yoga

While brick yoga and deep stretching can be beneficial, Sadhna mentions, they should be approached with caution to avoid injury. Some key precautions include:

• Warm-Up First: Stretching cold muscles can lead to strains. A light warm-up, such as mobility drills or gentle movement, prepares the body for deeper stretches.
• Progress Gradually: Flexibility is built over time. Avoid pushing too hard too soon, and use blocks as support rather than forcing the body into extreme positions.
• Maintain Proper Alignment: Using a mirror or guidance from a yoga instructor can help ensure that poses are performed correctly to prevent unnecessary strain.
• Breathe & Relax: Holding the breath during deep stretches can create tension. Instead, focus on deep, steady breathing to help the muscles relax.
• Listen to the Body: Stretching should be challenging but not painful. Any sharp or prolonged discomfort is a sign to ease back and modify the pose.