Child’s pose is one of the 12 Yoga Poses that are beginner-friendly and can be used to relieve stress, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. It is a resting pose that is often used between more strenuous poses.
Benefits of Child’s Pose
- Stretches the hips, thighs, and ankles
- Relieves stress and fatigue
- Calms the mind and body
- Improves flexibility and range of motion
- Helps to relieve back pain
- Improves digestion
- Reduces anxiety and depression
Child’s Pose vs Extended Child’s Pose
- Both are yoga poses that involve starting on your hands and knees.
- Both are considered restorative poses that can help to relieve stress and tension.
- Both can help to improve flexibility and range of motion in the hips, thighs, and ankles.
Differences Between Child’s Pose and Extended Child’s Pose
- In child’s pose, your torso rests on your thighs. In extended child’s pose, your torso rests on your shins.
- In child’s pose, your arms are extended in front of you. In extended child’s pose, your arms are extended overhead.
- Extended child’s pose is generally considered to be a more challenging pose than child’s pose.
How to Do Child’s Pose
- Kneel on the floor with your big toes touching.
- Sit back on your heels, keeping your knees hip-width apart.
- Lower your torso down between your thighs, resting your forehead on the floor.
- Stretch your arms forward, palms down.
- Stay in this pose for 5-10 breaths, or longer if desired.
How to Do Extended Child’s Pose
- Start in child’s pose.
- As you exhale, extend your arms overhead, keeping your palms together.
- Reach your fingertips towards the wall behind you.
- Stay in this pose for 5-10 breaths, or longer if desired.
FAQs
How long should I stay in child’s pose?
You can stay in child’s pose for as long as you like, but 5-10 breaths is a good starting point.
What are some modifications for child’s pose?
If you have knee pain, you can place a cushion or folded blanket under your knees. If you have shoulder pain, you can bend your elbows and rest your forehead on your forearms.
