Stretch and Surrender: #44 Half-Kneel Stretch

Benefits: Stretches the hip and thigh muscles. Improves balance and concentration. Aids posture and lower back mobility.

METHOD: Start from a kneeling position. Bring your right leg out in front of you with the foot gently beyond the knee. Rest hands on your knee. To help with balance, gaze at a point in front of you. Stretch your body forward by lowering your left hip. The knee of the forward leg should be directly over your ankle, not beyond it. Feel a stretch in the front of your left hip. Hold for 15-30 seconds. Repeat with your left leg in front of you. Do 3 to 5 times on each side.

Tip: This is a great stretch for people involved in activities that use the lower extremities, as well as for anyone whose lower back and hips are tight.