Yin yoga sequence for hip opening
- Butterfly Pose: Sit on the floor and bring the soles of your feet together, letting your knees drop open to the sides. Bring your heels as close to your body as you comfortably can. Place your hands on your feet or ankles and gently fold forward, resting your forehead on a prop if needed. Hold for 3-5 minutes.
- Dragon Pose: Come into a lunge position with your right foot forward. Lower your left knee to the ground and walk your right foot out to the side. Rest your forearms on a prop or the ground and hold for 3-5 minutes on each side.
- Square Pose: Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Bend your right knee and place your right foot on the floor, crossing it over your left leg. Your right ankle should be resting on your left thigh. If your knee is lifted, place a prop or blanket under it for support. Fold forward over your legs and hold for 3-5 minutes on each side.
- Lizard Pose: From a plank position, bring your right foot forward and place it on the outside of your right hand. Lower your left knee to the ground and move your right foot further to the right, sinking your hips down toward the ground. Place your forearms on the ground or a prop and hold for 3-5 minutes on each side.
- Shoelace Pose: Sit on the floor with your knees bent and your feet on the ground. Cross your right ankle over your left thigh, letting your right knee fall open to the side. If your knee is lifted, place a prop or blanket under it for support. Fold forward over your legs and hold for 3-5 minutes on each side.
- Sleeping Swan Pose: From a tabletop position, slide your right knee forward and to the outside of your right hand. Extend your left leg behind you and lower your hips down toward the ground. Place your forearms on the ground or a prop and hold for 3-5 minutes on each side.
Remember to breathe deeply and relax into each pose. Allow the stretch to penetrate deeply into your hips and release any tension or tightness. Enjoy the benefits of a relaxing Yin yoga practice for your hips!