Camel Pose

How to

1. Begin by kneeling on your mat with knees hip-width apart and thighs perpendicular to the floor.
2. Place your hands on your lower back with fingers pointing down, gently supporting your sacrum.
3. Inhale deeply as you press your shins and the tops of your feet firmly into the mat, engaging your quadriceps.
4. Exhale and begin to lift your chest upward, arching your back while keeping your hips directly over your knees.
5. Gently draw your shoulder blades together and down your back to open your heart center.
6. If comfortable, reach your hands back to grasp your heels, keeping your fingers facing the toes.
7. Maintain a neutral neck, or if it feels safe, allow your head to gently fall back, keeping your gaze towards the tip of the nose or upward.
8. To exit, bring your hands back to your hips, engage your core, and slowly lift your chest to return to the starting position, sitting back on your heels.

Benefits

• Stretches the entire front of the body, including the chest, abdomen, and hip flexors.
• Strengthens the back muscles, improving spinal flexibility.
• Opens the heart chakra, enhancing emotional balance and openness.
• Can help alleviate mild back pain through improved posture and spinal alignment.
• Reduces stress and anxiety by promoting deep breathing and relaxation.