This gentle pose "offers firm support for the spine while gently stretching and opening the front of the body along with both legs and hips," yoga instructor Sherrell Moore-Tucker, RYT 200, says. She adds that Reclining Butterfly is a great way for beginners to find relief from stress, both physical and mental.
If you have a bolster or a supportive pillow, bring it out for this pose.
- Start off in Butterfly Pose: sit on the floor, bend both knees, and bring your feet together.
- Slowly begin to round your spine down until your back is resting all the way on the ground or on your pillow.
- Draw awareness to keeping your feet together, and allow your knees to drop closer and closer toward your mat. Either keep your arms gently resting on the floor, palms facing, or with one hand on your belly and the other on your heart.
- Hold for at least five breaths.