Reclined Hand-to-Big-Toe

How to

1. Lie down on your back on a yoga mat, legs extended and arms resting by your sides.
2. Bend your right knee and draw it towards your chest, keeping your left leg extended and active on the floor.
3. Loop a strap around the ball of your right foot and hold the ends of the strap with both hands.
4. Inhale deeply, and as you exhale, straighten your right leg towards the ceiling, pressing through the heel and keeping the foot flexed.
5. Ensure both hips are grounded evenly on the mat. Engage your left thigh by pressing the back of the left leg into the floor.
6. Relax your shoulders and keep your neck long, gazing softly towards the ceiling or at your extended leg.
7. Hold the pose for 5-10 breaths, maintaining a steady and relaxed breath. With each exhalation, gently deepen the stretch if comfortable.
8. To exit, bend your right knee and release the strap, slowly lowering your right leg back to the mat. Repeat on the opposite side.

Benefits

• Stretches the hamstrings, calves, and groin
• Improves flexibility in the hips and legs
• Relieves lower back pain and tension
• Promotes relaxation and reduces stress
• Enhances circulation in the lower body