Tight hips are a common affliction for those of us who sit for a good part of the day. Pigeon pose counteracts the pain from rounding your back in a chair and releases tension, both mentally and physically. "People tend to hold a lot of stress and emotions in the hip area," Liza explained. Pigeon pose can release feelings of stress and tension and help you relax after a long day. Liza recommended warming up with a quick five-minute walk before getting into the stretch.
- Sit with your right knee bent and your left leg extended behind you. Pull the right heel in toward your left hip, or if your hips are more open, inch your right foot away from you. Make sure your left hip is always pointing down toward the mat. If it begins to open up toward the ceiling, draw your right foot back in toward your body.
- Stay here with your hands resting on your right thigh or your hips, or walk your hands out in front of you, allowing your torso to rest over your right knee.
- Hold here, breathing into any areas of tightness and tension for at least one minute and as long as five minutes.
- Repeat this pose with your left knee bent.
If you're at work, try a Standing Pigeon variation.