Hey there! Feeling a bit down or worn out? Let’s try the Sphinx pose, a beginner-friendly backbend that’s great for giving you a little energy boost and shaking off those blues. It’s an awesome stretch for your spine, and you’ll feel it in your shoulders, tummy, chest, and even get those lungs opened up. Just a heads up: if you’ve got a headache or any back issues, you might wanna skip this one.
Alright, let’s get into it:
- Starting Out: Lie down on your belly, legs straight and close together. Imagine there’s a string pulling the base of your spine toward your feet, elongating it.
- Legs Matter Too: Gently turn your thighs in and really stretch out those toes. Engage your legs and hips, but let your head and face totally relax. It’s all about balance, right?
- Getting Into The Sphinx: Place your elbows right under your shoulders and your forearms flat on the mat, palms down. Ready for the magic? Take a deep breath and lift your upper body, creating a gentle curve in your back. It’s like you’re trying to see over a wall, but without straining.
- Hold & Breathe: Feel that stretch? Try to lift your belly off the ground a bit, spreading that curve evenly through your spine. Stay here, take 5 to 10 breaths, and just enjoy the moment.
- And… Relax: Breathe out, slowly come down starting with your belly, then chest, and finally, your head. Turn your head to one side, take a breather, and feel the good vibes.
There you go! Every time you do this, you’re taking a step to strengthen your back and lighten your mood. Happy practicing!