SIDE LUNGE

1. Stand with the feet a wide apart, arms relaxed at the sides. Pivot left foot at right angle from body.

2. Inhaling, slowly raise arms to shoulder level. Stretch legs and lengthen torso.

3. Exhaling, bend left knee in lunge position. Caution: Knee should maintain direct position above foot, if it extends over foot it will place undue tension on knee causing possible damage.

4. Exhaling, bend the body sideways to the right. Keep the head facing forward. Hold for a few seconds with the breath out.

5. Exhale and lower left forearm onto thigh.

6. Inhale, raise right arm over your head, creating a diagonal line from fingertips to heel.

7. To come out of pose, Lower right arm to side and slowly come up to standing position, pivoting foot back to center position. Relax a few moments with arms at your sides.

8. Repeat pose on opposite side

BENEFITS: The Side Lunge Pose gives an unusual sideward stretch to the spine and surrounding muscles. The posture stretches and increases flexibility to the hip area. This pose also helps to tone the internal organs and strengthen the abdominal area. The waistline and underarms are slimmed and strengthened.