When I need a good hamstring stretch, Seated Straddle is one of my
faves. To feel an even deeper stretch in the backs of my legs, I like to
do this pose with a friend as in Seated Straddle Lounge.
If you liked that one, here's another variation to try. This partner
yoga pose, Twisting Seated Straddle, is also an incredible spinal twist.
- Both partners face each other in a Seated Straddle
with their legs wide and feet touching. If one partner is shorter or
less flexible than the other, she can place her feet on her partner's
inside ankles.
- Both partners sit up nice and tall, elongating their spines. They
actively press the backs of their knees to the floor to increase the
stretch in their hamstrings.
- Then they hold right hands and lean over to their right leg, holding
their right toes with their left hand. To deepen the twist, they can
walk their hand up their partner's arm, holding onto the forearm or
elbow. They stay here for at least five deep breaths, gazing up toward
the ceiling, and working on drawing their upper shoulder behind then to
bring the stretch into their chests.
- Then they gently release and switch sides.
