Parigrasana Gate Pose

Parigrasana Gate Pose
 
This is one of my favorite poses because it is both grounding and energizing at the same time.  Side bends are wonderful for reproductive health.  As you bend to one side you compress the reproductive organs giving them a nice squeeze to increase blood flow, balance hormones and improve overall functioning.   The opposite side gets a wonderful stretch and creates space for deep breathing and nourishment to the reproductive system. 

Directions: 

Kneel on the floor. If your knees are sensitive place a blanket under your knees. Stretch your right leg out to the right and press the foot to the floor.  Keep your left knee directly below your left hip (so the thigh is perpendicular to the floor), and align your right heel with the left knee. Turn the right kneecap toward the ceiling.

Step 2

As you inhale, bring your arms out to your sides, parallel to the floor, palms down. Bend to the right in the same plane as the right leg and lay your right hand down on the shin, ankle, or the floor outside the right leg.

Step 3

With an inhalation, sweep the left arm over the back of the left ear. Square your hips so they are in the same plane.

Step 4

Stay in this pose anywhere from 30 seconds to a minute. Breathe slowly and deeply.  Come up as you inhale, reaching through the top arm to draw the torso upright. Bring the right knee back beside the left