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Yoga Pose Explained: Utthan Pristhasana (Lizard Pose)

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If you’ve ever taken a class with me, you know I love lizard pose (Utthan Pristhasana). I almost always practice it in my own practice. It makes my hips feel so good as lizard pose is an intense hip opener. Try to practice steady and full breathing and being present in the body, allowing the pose to slowly do its work.

12 steps guide you to the advanced lizard pose. Remember, you do not need to do all of the variations listed; choose the stage of the pose that is best suited to your practice and you feel comfortable in.

Lizard Pose is a versatile pose with many benefits.

  • Opens the hips, hamstrings, groins and hip flexors
  • Strengthens the inner thigh muscles on the front leg
  • Opens and releases the chest, shoulders and neck
  • Prepares the body for deeper hip openers such as Pigeon Pose and Hanuman Pose

Modifications

  • You may use a block or a bolster to rest your forearms on
  • You may need a strap to grab hold of your foot in the quad stretch variation

Caution – Things to consider

  • This is an intense hip stretch. It is very important to keep the hips square
  • Prevent lower back pain by moving very slowly into the pose using basic steps. Make sure to keep your spine long and straight all the way.

Namaste,

Carmen