Yoga Poses

Take a yoga class with Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen!

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12) Extended Cat Stretch (Warms up and awakens entire body; great for your spine)
Adding to Cat Back, lift your left knee off the ground and bring it toward your forehead while simultaneously tucking your forehead under. Then inhale, extending your right leg behind you with pointed toes. Lift your head and look forward. During the entire smooth movement, keep your hips in line and your pelvis steady as your elongate your entire body. Do five times and switch sides.

13) Thread the Needle (Opens upper back and shoulders)
Start on all fours. Take your right hand palm side down and slide it under your left armpit. Keep extending it as you exhale and slowly lower your right ear and shoulder to the mat. Simultaneously drop your left elbow onto the mat, or as low as you feel comfortable. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides.

14) Lion (Awakens and simultaneously relaxes facial muscles)
While on your knees, sit erect and inhale deeply. Stretch all of your facial muscles apart on the exhale. Open you mouth as wide as you can. Try to touch your tongue to your chin, and open your hands as wide as you can, with palms facing outward. Look at the tip of your nose and make a loud “ha” sound. Do four times.

15) Wrist Extensions (Opens wrists; helps with carpal tunnel problems)
Bring your hands out in front of you, palm side down. Interface your fingers chest high. Relax your shoulders and gently pull your elbows apart, creating space in your joints. While maintaining this space, raise your active left wrist and lower your passive right. Keep both forearms parallel to the ground. Now your right wrist is bending up and your left wrist is bending down. With fingers interlaced, gently go back and forth several times, opening up your wrists and switching your lead hand.

16) Camel (Opens chest and the front of the body; strengthens spine)
While on your knees (use a towel if needed), place your knees and feet six inches apart. Place your hands on the back of your hips, fingers pointed down. Drop your head back completely and support yourself with your hands. Take a deep breath and exhale as you press your hips, thighs and stomach forward, using your spine strength. While taking deep breaths, hold bend for 20 seconds and come out slowly.