Reverse prayer pose is my new favorite stretch!
I wish I had found it sooner and am surprised that it’s not more popular, especially since it remedies the effects of too much time spent in front of our screens.
I mean, who wouldn’t love a pose that opens up your chest while stretching and strengthening your shoulders? And that can be done while sitting or standing, with very little space required?
I started practicing reverse prayer pose throughout my workday and at the end of my workouts. It has significantly improved my flexibility and range of motion, and it feels amazing when I’ve been in front of my computer for too long.
To begin, move your hands to the middle of your back with your palms facing outward. If this is enough of a stretch, press your shoulders back against your back. If you’re able to take it a step further, arrange your hands into a prayer position and hold. And if you’re super flexible and ready to transition to the full pose, transition your wrists and hands toward your back into prayer pose (fingers pointing upward), making sure to get in a good stretch.
Go ahead, give it a try! And remember to breathe, listen to your body and try to hold your stretches for at least 30 seconds!