Photo: Yoga 15/ Abi Carver.
Skill Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Benefits
-Stretches the ankles, calves, hamstrings, groin and hip flexors.
-Alleviates lower back pain.
Instructions
-Lie on your back with your legs straight and both feet flexed. Bring your right knee in towards your chest.
-Straighten your right leg up to the sky and push through your heel. Walk your hands up your leg to take hold of the back of your thigh, calf, ankle or big toe.
-Hold the pose for 5 deep breaths, in and out through your nose.
-Release the pose and switch sides.
Modifications
-Loop a strap, belt or towel around the arch of your raised foot so that you can keep your leg straight and isolate the stretch in your hamstring.
-Bend the knee of your bottom leg if your hips are tight.
-Rest your head on a cushion if it’s more comfortable.
Contraindication
-Hamstring injury.
Find more yoga poses and routines designed specifically for surfers here
