Why I do it: This pose not only opens the chest and stretches the abs, and activates the glutes and hamstrings, but it's a nice way to increase flexibility in my wrists and strength in my shoulders.
- From Three-Legged Dog, slowly lower your right leg to the floor behind you as you simultaneously raise your right arm in the air. You're essentially rotating your body 180 degrees so your belly is pointing up toward the ceiling. Readjust your feet if you need to so they are parallel and slightly wider than hips-width distance apart.
- Press firmly into your feet to lift your hips high, engaging your glutes and hamstrings, and extend your right arm over your face.
- Hold here for five complete breaths, gazing at your extended hand or up toward the ceiling.