Child's Pose or "Balasana"
The first move I will introduce is a basic resting pose that stretches out the entire back when done correctly. Child's Pose or "Balasana" allows you to relax and you can remain in this pose for up to a few minutes. This is often a "go to" pose for me when I am in yoga class and need a break from the current move being performed in class.
The move: Start with your knees and tops of your feet on the floor with the feet together and toes touching. With your knees apart, rest your belly and chest between the legs. Place your head on the floor, and stretch the arms out in front of you. The most important part of this move is that you want to continue moving you hands further away from your body while you are continually sitting back into your feet. When done correctly, you will feel a deep stretch throughout your entire back and in your shoulders.
Modification: If your head does not yet reach the floor, feel free to use a block or towel to rest it on. This will avoid any neck strain.
Hi Kristen,
ReplyDeleteMy sister is a yoga fanatic! She has been trying to get me to join her classes for many months :). In fact she is now taking classes to become a yoga professor. Currently I am working on holding my headstand. I get it up for about a second and then my legs drop. Thanks for a great blog!