Child Pose Side Stretch

Benefits: Same as child pose, but additionally it provides a stretch on the side of the upper body from the hips to the fingertips.

From your child pose (with arms reaching forward) reach your right arm out to the side. Lift your left arm and place your left hand on top of your right hand. As you exhale reach through your left fingers and press your left hip back towards your heels. Hold and breathe 3-5 breaths.

Your stretch should be in your left side from your hips to your fingertips.

Come back to your child pose when you are ready and rest there for a breath. Then repeat on the other side reaching your left hand out and topping it with the right. Be sure to breathe into the stretch when you press your hips back.

Note: your head should stay in line with the rest of your spine.

Precautions: People with knee injuries should place a folded blanket under the buttocks to lessen the angle of and the pressure on the bent knee.