Pose of the Month: June - Boat Pose

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Posing on the beach in Huatulco, Mexico

Posing on the beach in Huatulco, Mexico

THE POSE: Boat Pose (Ardha Navasana)

THE BENEFITS: This pose is a great core workout! It also strengthens your hip flexors and spine. Boat Pose is great for stimulating your kidneys, thyroid glands, and prostate. It improves digestion, relieves stress, and builds confidence. And that’s not all! The pose can also boost blood circulation through your entire body and even help regulate menstrual cycles.

ALIGNMENT CUES:

Keep…

…Your heart pulling forward

…Your toes spread and pointed

…Your legs pressing toward each other

…Your lower back straight and low. No rounding!

…Your core activated

…Your hands reaching energetically forward (if reaching forward)

…Your ears in-line with your biceps (if reaching up)

…You shoulders sinking down your back—not creeping up to your ears

…The back of your neck long

VARIATION:

If the full expression is too much, you can place your hands on the floor behind you, with fingers facing toward your glutes. Bend your knees at a 90 degree angle.

DON’T PRACTICE THIS POSE IF YOU HAVE:

  • A headache

  • Diarrhea

  • Low blood pressure

  • Insomnia

  • Heart problems

  • If you are menstruating

  • If you are pregnant