Poses
Seal Pose
Yin · intermediate
Glossary: seal-pose
How to
- Begin by lying on your stomach, legs extended behind you, hip-width apart and arms resting beside your body.
- Place your hands flat on the floor, slightly wider than your shoulders, with fingers pointing forward.
- On an inhale, press into your palms to lift your chest and head off the ground, straightening your arms as much as comfortable.
- Allow your lower back to gently arch while keeping your shoulders relaxed and away from your ears.
- Engage your glutes lightly to support your lower back, and let your gaze be soft, looking slightly upwards or forward.
- Maintain a steady and deep breath, feeling the expansion in your chest and abdomen.
- To exit, slowly lower your chest back to the ground on an exhale, and rest your arms beside your body.
Benefits
- Stretches the front body, including the abdomen, chest, and throat.
- Improves spinal flexibility, particularly in the lower back.
- Stimulates the kidneys and adrenal glands, promoting energy flow.
- Reduces stress and tension by encouraging deep breathing and relaxation.
- Can help alleviate lower back pain through gentle extension and strengthening.