How to Do the Yoga Monkey Pose With a Partner

The yoga monkey pose is a challenging intermediate pose which requires enough flexibility to perform the front splits. Once you gain the flexibility to enter the pose, you can begin to reap the benefits, such as an opening of the chest and shoulders and deep release of the hip joints. A partner can help.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Rest in a kneeling position with the tops of your feet flat on the ground and then pick up your right leg, placing the foot flat on the floor in front of you. Begin to slowly walk the right foot in front of you until you must turn the heel up.

2. Place your fingertips on the ground at your sides for support and then slowly, and gently, push your left leg back until you lower down into the full splits. Point the toes of your right foot and find your balance as you lift up through the spine.

3. Inhale deeply and lift your arms overhead and then exhale and lean back slightly, picking up your head to gaze at the ceiling.

4. Have your partner stand facing you, straddling your hips. He should place his hands on your outer arms, just above the shoulder joints and then slowly apply gentle pressure as he runs his hands up the length of your arms to your wrists. This very subtle assistance will help you to further lift through the spine and out through the fingertips. Your partner can repeat these motions with each exhalation.

5. Hold the yoga monkey pose for at least five deep breaths and then exhale as you lower your arms to your sides. Push into the floor and bring your left leg in slightly. When you can rest on your left knee, bend your right knee and come back to a kneeling position. Repeat on the opposite side.

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