In this photo, Karen demonstrates Lizard Pose, beneficial for those tight hips. Photo by Fred Padilla.
By Karen Watson Reeves
As the days of summer wind down, the opportunities to see lizards sunning on rocks dwindle. And as a self-professed lover of summer, sun, and all things warm, that brings a bit of dread to my psyche. So I try to take advantage of moments to be outdoors and soak up vitamin D.
The lizard pose demonstrated in the photo is an example of finding a warm, sunny surface and getting deep into the stretch. Lizard Pose can be challenging for those who are tight-of-hip, as it is a very active hip opener, but fortunately, there are some more approachable modifications.
Because most of us do a lot of sitting, our hip flexors are tight and stiff. If that is how your hips are feeling most days, Lizard Pose is a good solution, but it might feel intimidating. Holding the pose and moving deeper into it gradually is how I prefer to approach it.
You can begin with your hands on the floor instead of the forearms and drop the back knee to the mat or a blanket. Keep the back of the neck long, relaxed, and in line with the rest of the spine, and avoid dropping the head down. Breathe slowly and deeply to release the tightness and tension.
Besides opening the tight hips, there are other benefits to Lizard Pose. The glutes, which help your body walk, run, and stand upright, are strengthened and toned. In the upper body, the shoulders and chest muscles are toned. Some other practical benefits include increased mobility, a longer stride, more agility in changing directions, and reduced risk of injury to the hamstrings.
It is definitely an intense posture and in the Yin style of yoga, the pose may be held up to 15 or 20 minutes. I would not recommend that for a beginner, but if you enjoy the warm days of summer, I do suggest finding a warm rock or wall, a yoga mat, and some deep breathing and get into Lizard Pose for as long as it feels good. And don’t forget to do the other side!
Karen Watson Reeves has called Hot Springs home since 2006. Owner of The Yoga Place, at 301 Whittington Avenue, she became a registered yoga/children’s yoga teacher in 2011. When not on the mat, Karen enjoys the beautiful outdoors of the National Park, especially from her bicycle. For more information about her studio and her schedule of classes, visit www.theyogaplacehs.com.
