This pose is a bit more advanced but is ideal for stretching tight thighs, legs, and hips. A wonderful hip-opener, you’ll achieve its full benefits when you’re able to breathe fully and deeply into the pose, even if it’s a bit uncomfortable. This is a great pose for stretching the legs and back.

Steps

1. Start in Downward Facing Dog. On an inhale step your right foot forward, in between your hands, bending your leg.
2. Step the right foot to the outside of the right hand.
3. Without allowing the leg to “bow” outward, bend your elbows and place them on the floor. (If this is not possible, add a prop such as a block or folded up blanket for extra help.)
4. Keep your spine and neck neutral, looking down. Your back should be as flat as possible, your back leg straight.
5. Use the resistance from your elbows and back leg to breathe more deeply and sink deeper into the pose.
6. If it’s too intense, drop the back knee down for a bit of relief.

To come out of the pose, step your right foot back into downward dog, and repeat on the other side.

Comments

Remember to breath deeply throughout the pose. Hip opening poses are often the most intense, no matter what your ability level, as hips tend to be where we carry a lot of stress.