Dragon Pose (Yin)

How to

1. Begin in a tabletop position on your hands and knees, with wrists directly under shoulders and knees under hips.
2. Step your right foot forward between your hands, aligning your knee above your ankle.
3. Slide your left knee back, extending the leg behind you, and let the top of the left foot rest on the mat.
4. Keep your hands on either side of your front foot, or come up onto your fingertips to create more space in the chest.
5. Relax your hips downward, sinking them towards the floor while keeping the spine long and shoulders relaxed.
6. Maintain a steady breath, inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly to encourage release and relaxation in the hips.
7. Gaze softly forward or down towards the floor to maintain a neutral neck position.
8. To exit the pose, gently bring your back knee forward, returning to a tabletop position, and repeat on the other side.

Benefits

• Stretches and opens the hip flexors, quadriceps, and groin.
• Releases tightness in the hips, which can alleviate lower back tension.
• Encourages deep breathing and enhances mindfulness, promoting relaxation and stress relief.
• Stimulates the digestive organs, aiding in digestion and elimination.
• Grounds and balances energy, promoting a sense of calm and focus.