Malasana (Yoga Squat)

How To

This posture stretches the thighs, hips, and groin, as well as opens up the chest. It also strengthens the ankles and can help improve balance.

• Begin standing with your feet a little wider than hip-width apart, and the hands at heart center.
• Bend your knees, pivot your toes out slightly, and slowly lower all the way down into a squat.
• Bring your elbows inside your knees, keeping your hands in prayer.
• With your arms as close to parallel to the floor as you can get them, use your elbows to gently press the knees open.
• Keep your chest lifted, shoulder blades down and back, spine straight, and hips down toward the ground.
• Hold for a few breaths and exit by standing back up.

Tips

Tip 1

Keep the shoulders away from your ears by squeezing the shoulder blades behind you to help open up the chest.