Sphinx Pose

Lie on your belly with your legs stretched behind you on the exercise mat.

Rest your elbows and hands on the mat separated about shoulder-width apart with elbows a bit in front of your shoulders (more towards the outer edge of the mat), and fingers pointing straight towards the outer edge of the mat.

Take a deep breath and move your torso and head away from the floor to give some bend to your back. Keep your hips firm but do not squeeze them. All movements should be subtle.

While in this pose, think about lengthening the space between your pubis and belly button, as well as lengthening your lower back. Become aware of your lower belly, your pubic bone and your belly button.

Stay in this pose for 5 to 10 deep breaths. Be mindful of preventing any injury to your neck by gazing ahead or slightly down instead of looking up towards the ceiling.

At your last exhale, slowly lower yourself to the mat. Turn your head to one side and rest your head on your forearm. Lie calmly for a while, expanding your back with each inhale, and take the edge off any stress with each exhale.