Lounging Lizard is a variation of Lizard Pose (Utthan Pristhasana). It is is a deep hip opener that combines elements of Lizard Pose and adds a twist in both the upper and lower body to target a different area of the hip.

Benefits & Muscle Focus:

• Increases flexibility in the hips, activates the outer glutes.
• Enhances spinal mobility and helps to open up the chest with the added twist variation.
• Strengthens the arms and obliques by keeping the body active and hips hovering over the mat.

Alignment:

1. Starting from Lizard Pose (Utthan Pristhasana) with the right leg forward, ensure the right knee is stacked over the right ankle, and the left toes are tucked with the left knee lifted.
2. Plant the left hand down and twist the right arm open towards the left foot.
3. Pivot both feet to the knife edge (pinky toe side) of the foot, pointing the toes to the right long edge of the mat. Realign the right foot as needed by heel-toeing the foot away from the body or towards the left foot if it feels uncomfortable in the knee or hips.
4. Press into the mat with the left arm and engage the left obliques to keep the hips hovering over the mat.
5. Flex the toes towards your shin to protect the knees.

Contraindications:

• Recent hip injury: Avoid this pose if you have a recent or acute hip injury.
• Knee issues: Individuals with knee problems should use caution and may need to modify by keeping the soles of the feet grounded and focus the twist in the upper body only.

Practice:

• Flow 10: Morning Yoga for Climbers →