What is the sphinx stretch?
Sphinx pose is a gentle backbend that helps to open the chest, lungs and low back. Since sphinx is performed on the forearms, it takes the pressure off the wrists.
Set up
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Begin by lying face-down on the floor with your legs extending behind you, hip-width apart. Keep your arms at your sides and your chin on the mat.
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Bring your arms up and rest your elbows under your shoulders with your forearms on the floor, parallel to each other.
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Press your forearms into the floor and lift your head and chest off the floor. ![](/UserFiles/Image/Screen Shot 2019-05-13 at 10.50.08 AM.png)
Benefits
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Strengthens the spine. It warms the spine and helps to rebalance the natural curve of your lower back.
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Stretches chest, shoulders and the abdominal wall. Sphinx opens the chest and strengthens the core.
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Calms the mind. The stretch can be a relaxing move when it is performed properly.
Please do this pose with caution. Ask your physician or physical therapist if sphinx pose is okay for your back.
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