If you’ve ever peeked into the room mid-class, you’ve likely seen poses that seem simultaneously funny, grotesque, and a little scary.

And yet, that’s precisely the charm of yoga: behind every odd twist or inversion lies a hidden benefit. Below is a selection of poses that make even seasoned practitioners smile while delivering truly amazing results.

Firefly Pose (Tittibhasana)

The perfect balance of strength and flexibility. Honestly, it looks like someone is trying to imitate an insect with their hands. Challenging? Very. Funny? Even more so.

Ear Press Pose (Karnapidasana)

That pose where your knees are next to your ears, and your pelvis is jutting upward. From the outside, it looks like a mystery; on the mat, it’s a profound pleasure for your back. Eight Angled Pose (Astavakrasana)

One of the most spectacular arm balance poses—alternative description: “wicked push-up,” as if dreamed up by an extreme trainer.

Happy Baby Pose (Ananda Balasana)

The name speaks for itself. Legs up, feet in hands—and you look just like a joyful baby. Ideal for relaxing the lower back and hips.

Goddess Pose (Utkata Konasana)

A powerful pelvic-opening pose that will make you feel like a true heroine. Adding dramatic arm movements adds a bonus.

Embryo Pose (Pindasana)

The practitioner feels calm, but an observer is more likely to ask, “What are you even doing?!” No comment here.

Bound Lotus (Baddha Padmasana)

Because sometimes meditation isn’t enough—you also need to test the limits of your flexibility. A great way to scratch your toe… if you can even reach it.

Shoulder Squeeze Pose (Bhujapidasana)

This pose transforms you into something resembling a floating frog. Yes, it looks weird. But it strengthens your arms and core like crazy.

Legs Overhead (Dwi Pada Sirsasana)

The height of yogic extreme. When your feet are comfortably positioned behind your neck, you’re either incredibly flexible or ready for a photo shoot with a cupcake in hand.

Yogic Sleep Pose (Yoga Nidrasana)

On the outside, absolute calm. On the inside, superhero-level flexibility. It’s both mesmerizing to watch and makes you think you could fit it into carry-on luggage.

Yes, yoga sometimes turns us into a crocodile, a shrimp, or a pretzel tied in a loop. But every pose, even the most unusual, has a purpose. They develop the body, calm the mind, and remind us that growth happens even when we look ridiculous. The key is to keep moving, breathing, and trying new things.