Side Open-Angle - Upavistha Konasana

Sit on the floor with your legs extended straight in front of you. Bring the legs wide apart keeping the knees straight and the feet flex. To widen the legs more place the hands behind you and bring the hips forward. Then inhale twist the torso to the left, and exhale grab the left toes with both hands if possible. Then inhale look up bring the shoulder blades back, and exhale bend forward over the left leg. Hold and repeat in the other side.

If you cannot grab the toes, grab the leg as far as possible, or use a prop, as shown in the picture.

Benefits:

• It stretches the lower back, hamstrings, and calves.
• Opens the hips and shoulders.
• It improves the circulation of the liver, kidney, and reproductive organs.
• It relaxes the nervous system.