The Extended Triangle Pose

 

This yoga pose is one of the simpler but also one of the most highly beneficial yoga exercises.

• Stand upright with the feet a little more apart than shoulder width and the arms by your side, fingers extended down the legs.

• While steadily breathing in raise both arms outstretched from the shoulders and parallel with the floor with the palms facing downward.

• Exhale slowly while bending to the left from the waist and that will bring the left hand down to the ankle.

• Try to put the palm flat on the floor alongside the ankle, it may be difficult at first but will come eventually as your body becomes used to stretching.

The right arm should be vertical in a straight line with the left. The knees and elbows should not be bent.

• Turn the head upward to look at the right hand extended above your head.

• Hold momentarily and return to the upright standing position as you exhale.

Repeat on the opposite side.

The principal benefits come from stretching the hips, groin area, hamstrings, calves, shoulders, chest and spine, strengthening and stretching the thighs, knees and ankles.

Helps to relieve back pain and stress, stimulates the abdominal organs and is an aid to digestion.

This exercise can also have a therapeutic effect on flat feet, neck pain, sciatica and osteoporosis and is considered helpful in relieving the symptoms of menopause.

As usual take care if you suffer from low blood pressure or a heart problem or are in the later stages of pregnancy.

The Extended Triangle Pose