How to Perform the Hip Opener Yoga Pose

From professional athletes to office professionals, all people carry stress in various parts of their body that yoga can help release. One common problem area, particularly in women, runners and other athletes, is the hip area. Tension in the hips will cause low back pain and tightness as well. A simple hip opening stretch will help to improve your balance and reduce stress in your hips.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Stand in tadasana, or the yoga mountain pose, with your feet about hip-width apart, your arms relaxed at your sides and your pelvis slightly lifted towards your belly. Stand firmly on the ball and heel of your left foot and lift your right foot so that only your toes touch the ground, testing your balance and preparing for the pose.

2. Lift your right foot when you have found your center of balance and bend at the knee. You may find it helpful to find a focus point in the room to help you keep your balance. Place the ankle of your right leg on your left knee.

3. Support your right knee with your right hand and gently rest your left hand on your right ankle. Bend your left knee slowly and gently to increase the stretch on your outer hip. Make sure that you do not lean too far forward or you will lose your balance. Go only as far as is comfortable and have faith that with each stretch you will move further.

4. Hold the stretch for two breaths, approximately 10 seconds. If you lose your balance, don't lose your patience, simply go back to the pose and breathe. Release the stretch on the exhale and return to yoga mountain pose before repeating on the opposite side. Athletes will find this stretch extremely helpful after a heavy workout.

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