Featured Pose
deeper and deeper
(hip opener)
Illustrations by Chris DeCarlo
We tend to store a lot of tension in our hips. This pose helps you to release some of that tension as well as some emotional stress you might be holding.
Sit on the edge of a chair, and cross your right ankle over your left knee. Allow the right knee to open out to the side, and flex the right foot.
Place your hands on the right shin.
As you inhale, lift the top of your head toward the sky, and press your butt down into the seat as you lengthen the spine.
As you exhale, draw the belly in, and reach the heart forward as you extend over the right leg.
Tuck your chin to your chest, and lengthen the back of the neck as you reach the top of the head forward.
Focus the breath into the right hip, and as you exhale, try to release any gripping or tensing.
To take it further, drape the arms in front of the right shin, and let them dangle toward the ground as you allow the head to hang completely. Draw the belly in a little more, and lengthen through the lower back.
Take a deep inhale, and as you exhale, allow yourself to sink deeper into the pose.
Take a few deep breaths.
To come out of the pose, bring the hands back to the right shin, and on an inhale, sweep the torso back to an upright position.
Switch legs and repeat on the other side.
