Reclining Big-Toe Hold

Reclining Big Toe Hold stretches your leg and arm muscles. This is a moderately difficult pose and can be challenging if you have limited arm and leg flexibility.

If you you do not have the flexibility to keep your leg and arm straight, use a strap. Place the soul of your foot against a strap and lift your leg, using one hand, keeping your arm and leg straight as high as comfortably possible. Your leg and arm flexibility will increase with time and practice.

Do not worry if using a strap is the only way you can do Reclining Big Toe Hold. There are many yoga poses that are beyond the limits of some people. I know from personal experience.

English Name: Reclining Big Toe Hold

Sanskrit Name: Supta Padangusthasana

Difficulty Level: 5

Start Position: Reclining on your back

Instructions:

Step 1.

Bend your right knee and curl your first two fingers of your right hand around your big toe.

Step 2.

Rest your left hand on your left leg. Straighten your right leg upward towards your head.

Step 3.

Hold the pose for several breathes or as long as it feels comfortable.

Step 4.

Release and repeat on the other side.

Physical Benefits:

• Stretches & maintains hip flexibility
• Stretches wrists, arms, and legs
• Opens up the chest
• Improves lung capacity
• Helps pituitary and thyroid function
• Reduces fatigue

Mental Benefits

• Reduces stress
• Calms the mind
• Relieves mild anxiety & depression

Contraindications:

• Pregnancy
• Low back or spine injury
• Hip or shoulder injury
• Hand injury