How to Make the Hips More Open and Flexible

Good hip flexibility is crucial in the practice of hatha yoga. Regular practice of these simple exercises can make a big difference in your yoga practice.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Yoga mat
• Loose, comfortable clothing

1. Lie on your back with your legs straight and feet together. Flex the feet. Inhale the right leg up and grab hold of the right big toe with the index finger and thumb of the right hand.

2. As you exhale, bring the leg down to the floor on your right side. Both legs stay straight. If you cannot hold the toe and keep the leg straight at the same time, hold anywhere along the leg that is comfortable. Extend the left arm out and look towards the left hand. Breathe deeply.

3. Inhale the leg up and grab the toes with your left index finger and thumb and lower the leg to the left side. Extend the right arm out and look towards your right hand. Breathe deeply.

4. Inhale the right leg up and exhale the leg back to the mat with control. Shake the right leg out a few times.

5. Repeat the steps with the left leg.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to keep the hips down as you practice the exercise.
• Practice regularly and you will see a difference in hip openness.
• Not to be practiced by those with back, knee or hip injuries.