Today’s Poses – Revolved Side Angle and Sphinx Poses
Revolved Side Angle and Sphinx Poses
Revolved Side Angle Pose
Revolved Side Angle stretches, tones, and strengthens the entire body, inside and out. It stretches the thighs, knees, ankles, calves, groins, chest, and shoulders. This pose builds strength in the legs, as well, particularly in the quadriceps and ankles.
Steps
- From Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II), with your legs in a Warrior Stance and arms in a capital ‘T’, inhale to prepare
- Exhale, reach your front hand forward and hinge your torso slightly forward
- Rest your forearm on top or slightly inside of your front thigh
- Extend your top arm up towards the sky, fingers pointing above you
- Stack your shoulders on top of each other
- Option to reach your top arm up overhead, wrapping your bicep around your ear with your fingers reaching towards the front of your space
Benefits
- Improves flexibility
- Strengthens legs and core
- Improves digestion
- Stretches the groin, chest, and shoulders
Sphinx Pose
Sphinx Pose is a gentle back bending posture that can be practiced either actively or passively.
Steps
- Lie on your stomach with your toes flat on the floor and forehead resting on the ground.
- Keep your legs close together with your feet and heels lightly touching.
- Stretch your hands in front of you with your palms facing downward and arms touching the ground. Set your elbows under your shoulders and forearms parallel to each other.
- On an inhale, slowly lift your head, chest,
and abdomen while keeping your navel on the floor. - Pull your torso back and off the floor with the support of your arms.
- Ensure that your feet are still close together and your head facing straight ahead.
- On an exhale, gently lower your abdomen, chest, and head onto the floor.
Benefits
- Strengthens the spine
- Stimulates the abdominal organs
- Expands the chest and shoulders
- Improves circulation
- Relieves stress
