Pigeon pose is a yoga asana that stretches your hips, glutes, groin, back, piriformis, and psoas. It is a great way to increase flexibility and stretch your muscles, but its important to perform the move correctly to prevent injury or strain. The pose is performed on the ground, with one leg back and the other knee forward, and your hips should be anchored to the ground and your upper body should be straight. Here are the steps to perform the classic pigeon pose:
- Start in a high plank position with your hands and feet on the ground.
- Bring your right knee forward and place it behind your right wrist.
- Extend your left leg behind you, keeping your hips square to the ground.
- Lower your body so that your right shin is parallel to the mat.
- Elongate your spine and lift your chest. Look forward, keeping your gaze soft.
- Hold the position for a minute or 30 seconds, whichever is comfortable. Breathe deeply.
- To come out of the pigeon pose, exhale and bring your right leg back. Place both feet on the ground and go into the standing forward bend. Inhale as you bring your torso up.
Regularly practicing pigeon pose provides many benefits. This pose focuses on opening your hips, which supports mobility and flexibility in that joint. Pigeon pose also stretches your hip flexors and lower back, which are commonly tight due to prolonged sitting. Stretching these muscles regularly may alleviate mild lower back or hip pain. Pigeon pose may also help relieve tension and stress in the body as a whole.