Benefits: Stretches the entire lower body, including the shoulders, chest, and spine, while activating the abdominal muscles. Triangle pose also improves digestion, soothes backaches, and relieves stress.

Practice:  Begin by standing tall with your arms by your sides.  Inhale, then exhale.  As you exhale, step your feet apart in a wide stance.  Raise your arms parallel to the floor with your palms facing downward.  Turn your left foot to the left 90 degrees.  Inhale, then exhale.  As you exhale, bend your torso to the left and rest your left hand on your shin, ankle, or on the floor.  You may also use a block for additional support.  Stretch your right arm toward the ceiling, keeping your shoulders in line.  You may keep your head in a neutral position or turn your head to the right.

Remain in this pose for about one minute, then inhale, and come up; bringing both feet together and placing your arms back at your sides.  Reverse the pose, repeating for the same length of time on the right.