Crescent Lunge Halfway Fold
Try out this Asana with me?, Health Challenge Invite. Crescent Lunge Halfway Fold
STEPS :
- Start in a standing position at the top of your mat with your feet together and your arms resting at your sides.
- Step your right foot back about 3 to 4 feet, placing it firmly on the mat. Your right toes should be pointing forward, and your right heel should be lifted.
- Bend your left knee, so it aligns directly over your left ankle. Keep your left knee at a 90-degree angle or slightly less, to protect your knee joint.
- As you inhale, lift your arms up overhead, reaching toward the ceiling. Your biceps should be close to your ears, and your palms can face each other or be parallel.
- Lengthen your spine, engaging your core muscles for stability. Draw your shoulders down and away from your ears.
- Now, exhale and hinge at your hips, folding your upper body forward over your left thigh. As you fold, try to maintain a long spine, reaching your chest forward.
- Your hands can rest on your left thigh, on the floor beside your left foot, or you can reach for a yoga block if you need some elevation.
- Keep your right leg straight and actively engaged, with the back heel lifted off the mat.
- Feel the stretch along the front of your right hip (the hip flexors) and the hamstring of your right leg.
- Hold the pose for a few breaths, allowing your body to deepen into the stretch.
- To release, inhale and lift your torso back up to the standing position with your arms overhead.
- Exhale and step your right foot forward to meet your left foot, returning to the starting position.
- Repeat the same steps with your left foot stepped back to complete the pose on the other side.
Benefits
- Creates flexible strength.
- Promotes stability in the front and back of the torso.
- Tones the lower body.
- Stretches the chest, lungs, shoulders, arms, neck, belly, groins (psoas) and the muscles of the back.
- Strengthens and stretches the thighs, calves and ankles.
Who Can Do
Consult a doctor before beginning an exercise regime