The best thing about yoga that many other workouts don’t provide is improved flexibility. Having a flexible body helps with limiting tension, back pain, and shoulder pain. Here are some simple stretches you can practice every day to help improve your flexibility and look and feel your best!
Scissor Stretch
The scissor stretch is a basic move you should can if your goal is to become more flexible.
In a low lunge, point your left toes out at a 45-degree angle. Straighten both legs as much as you can with your toes touching the ground. Keep your right hip aligned to feel a deep stretch in your back and thighs, hold the position for about 30 seconds on each side.
Pigeon
The pigeon pose is a classic yoga move and an all-time favorite!
Start with a high plank position and bring one foot out with the other leg behind you, then move down with the first knee bent in front of you, and the second leg stretched behind you. Stay in that position for a good 45 seconds. You should be feeling a nice deep stretch coming from your neck down to your hamstrings and hips.
Kneeling Calf Stretch
Start in a tabletop position and then stretch one leg behind you, leaving the other one in place. Next, press back onto your heel and feel a gentle stretch in your calf. Repeat as many times as you’d like and hold for 30 seconds each time.
Side Stretch
This move is terrific against any back pain or shortness of breath you may experience.
Sit in a comfortable cross-legged position and place one palm on the floor next to you, and reach with your other hand over your head. Then, take a deep breath and stretch your arm up as much as you can (until you feel a deep stretch), and hold for 30 seconds. Repeat for the other arm.
Cow Face Arms
We suffer from a lot of built-up tension in our shoulders and back. This stretch is perfect for relieving you of any back and shoulder pain.
Sit in a comfortable position. Reach one arm up over your head and the other behind your back, then stretch your arms and shoulders so that both of your hands meet behind you. Hold the position for 30 seconds and repeat with the other side.
Supine Twist
The supine twist is the star of any yoga move. It allows you to relax and to enjoy an intense stretch that goes from your neck to your pelvis for instant relief.
Lie on your back and hug one knee towards your chest, take a deep breath, and push your knee to the opposite side, you will feel a deep stretch all over your spine. Keep your shoulders and on the ground and hold the position for 45 seconds while maintaining strong and deep breaths, repeat with the other knee.
You can try these stretches anywhere you want! These are perfect to add to your workout routine or to practice at home before bed for better sleep.