Greetings, my lovely Yogis, Yoginis, and Yoga teachers. I’m George Watts, a BWY yoga teacher and creator of the Online Yoga Lesson Planner. In this post, I’ll show you how I teach the Double Flowing Lotus Pose, a dynamic and engaging partner yoga pose. You’ll get a step-by-step video demonstration, and key reasons why including partner yoga can enhance connection, trust, and creativity in your classes.
Including partner yoga in your classes is a guaranteed way to add laughter, connection, and a little controlled chaos to the mix.
Not only does partner yoga help students build trust, but it also makes challenging poses more accessible with the support of a partner. Plus, let’s be honest—if your students are struggling through a deep stretch together, they’re way less likely to give you the side-eye for making them hold it longer. So, whether it’s for fun, deeper stretches, or just to shake up the routine, partner yoga is a win-win.
9 Teaching Steps for Double Flowering Lotus Partner Yoga Pose
Step 1: Start Seated – Both partners sit facing each other in a comfortable cross-legged position, ensuring their knees are aligned.
Step 2: Move into Lotus Pose – If both partners have the flexibility, they can transition into Lotus Pose (Padmasana) by placing each foot onto the opposite thigh. If Lotus is uncomfortable, a simple cross-legged position (Sukhasana) works too.
Step 3: Hold Hands for Balance – Partners reach forward and gently clasp each other’s hands or forearms, keeping a soft grip for support.
Step 4: Engage the Core & Lean Back – Both partners activate their core muscles and begin to slowly lean back, keeping their spines tall and chests open.
Step 5: Lift the Legs – With control, each partner simultaneously lifts their legs off the ground, maintaining their Lotus or cross-legged position. The soles of the feet may lightly touch for added connection and stability.
Step 6: Find Stability & Breathe – Encourage both partners to focus on deep, steady breathing to maintain balance. Adjust hand positioning if needed to create better support.
Step 7: Hold & Connect – Hold the pose for 5–10 breaths, allowing partners to synchronise their breath and deepen their connection.
Step 8: Exit Slowly & Mindfully – To release, lower the legs gently and bring the torso back to centre. Unfold the legs carefully and return to a seated position with awareness.
Step 9: Reflect & Reconnect – Partners can take a moment to notice how the pose felt, offering gratitude for the shared practice before moving on.
My Top 7 Teaching Tips for Double Flowering Lotus Partner Yoga Pose
Tip 1: Encourage Communication – Remind partners to communicate openly about their comfort level and make adjustments as needed. A successful partner pose relies on trust and teamwork.
Tip 2: Start with a Warm-Up – Begin with hip-opening and core-strengthening exercises to prepare the body for the pose, such as seated forward folds, gentle twists, and Cat-Cow stretches.
Tip 3: Use Props for Support – If students struggle with flexibility or balance, suggest placing yoga blocks or bolsters under their hips for added stability.
Tip 4: Adjust Grip Based on Comfort – Partners can hold hands, forearms, or even use a yoga strap between them if reaching is difficult. The goal is to maintain a secure yet relaxed connection.
Tip 5: Modify the Leg Position – If full Lotus Pose isn’t accessible, a simple cross-legged position or half Lotus can make the pose more comfortable and achievable.
Tip 6: Encourage Soft Gaze or Eye Contact – Looking at a fixed point or making gentle eye contact can enhance focus, connection, and balance.
Tip 7: Make It Playful – Partner yoga should be fun! Encourage laughter and lightheartedness if students wobble or fall out of the pose, reinforcing the idea that yoga is about the journey, not perfection.
