
Anjaneyasana — Low Lunge Pose
A deep lunge that lengthens the psoas and hip flexors while stabilizing the lumbar spine — an ideal warm-up before deeper backbends.
How to perform
From a downward-dog or tabletop base, step one foot forward between the hands. Lower the back knee to the mat and untuck the toes. Sink the hips forward and down, keeping the front knee stacked over the ankle. Lift the torso tall; optionally raise the arms overhead. Hold, then switch sides.
Breathing
Inhale to lengthen the spine and lift the chest; exhale to sink the hips deeper and soften the front of the back hip.
Benefits
Lengthens the psoas and hip flexors, opens the chest, and stabilizes the lumbar spine prior to deeper backbending.
Anatomical focus
Engage the rear glute to trigger reciprocal inhibition of the psoas; sink hips forward and down to lengthen the front-body.
Precautions
Keep the front knee aligned over the ankle. Pad the back knee if sensitive. Avoid sinking past your edge.