Yoga Flow: Psoas Stretch

The psoas, technically named iliopsoas, are two deep-seated core muscles that help support your back and so much more. Psoas major works by flexing the hip, while psoas minor acts to flex the lower spine. These muscles are unique in that they are the only muscles that connect the lumbar spine and lower body. They help us perform all sorts of daily activities, including walking and running.

Due to its relationship to the glutes, stretching is essential to functional strength and therefore better posture and comfort. Flowing through these yoga poses can help reduce back pain and allow you to move with greater ease.

 

Repeat this sequence several times, deepening the stretch as your body allows.

  1. Plank
  2. Down Dog Scorpion Split
  3. Twisted Lizard
  4. Low Lunge
  5. (Switch Sides, repeat)

Always work within YOUR pain-free available range and meet your body where it is.