If you're looking for an effective way to stretch the backs of your
legs and hips, give Standing Split a try. The best thing about this pose
is that you can focus on one leg at a time. It's also a great pose to
work on if you want to strengthen your sense of balance. Since your head
is below your heart in this pose, you'll feel energized and alert
afterward.
- Begin standing in Mountain
pose. Take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, fold forward from the
waist. Bring both hands to the floor and work on straightening both
legs.
- When you're ready, inhale and shift weight into your right foot and
your palms. Then lift the left leg up as high as you can. You can bend
the left knee if you like, or work on straightening the leg. Tuck your
chin and draw your torso toward your right leg, breathing deeply and
relaxing the shoulders away from the ears.
- Stay here for five breaths. Then return your left leg to the floor.
Stay here for a complete breath and then do this pose with the left foot
on the floor.
