Stretch and stabilize with Low Lunge Twist Pose – a gentle hip-opening twist that’s also safe for pregnancy…

Low Lunge Twist Pose (Parivrtta Sanchalasana) is a gentle hip opener that also provides a nice stretch for your back, shoulders, and pelvis. It also helps to build upper body and core strength, and improves balance. This is a good prenatal pose for relieving tension and pain in the hips and lower back.

You may occasionally hear that pregnant women should not do twist poses. In fact, some twist poses are fine for pregnancy; you just need to be careful to avoid the ones that may compress your stomach. As long as you aren’t compressing any joints or organs, you should be fine. However, let your body be the guide, and if something doesn’t feel right, back off or skip the pose.

Those with knee or shoulder injuries should avoid this one.

How to do Low Lunge Twist Pose:

Step 1: Begin in Downward Facing Dog Pose.

Step 2: Bring your right knee toward your nose, and step your right foot between your hands.

Step 3: Release your back knee to the ground.

Step 4: Plant your left palm on the ground in line with your right foot, under your shoulder, and lift your right arm to the ceiling.

Step 5: If it feels comfortable, turn your head and gaze upwards towards your raised hand. If you feel any pain in your neck, gaze forward or slightly down at the floor. Breathe here for at least three deep breaths, then unwind, step back into Down Dog, and repeat on the other side.

See a demo at MSN.com…