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Everyone I know in the yoga world is totally obsessed with opening up his or her hips.

I've got one friend who sits in full lotus at the movie theater and doesn't allow himself to release his legs until the credits role.

Sound crazy?

It sort of is. But I understand, because my hips used to be so locked-up that it hurt just to sit on the floor.

I distinctly remember being at a nutrition lecture in 2002, sitting school-style on the floor for about 30-minutes straight, and both my legs went completely numb.

And I was dripping with sweat because that was a huge hip stretch for me –  just sitting on my arse!

So yeah, it's sorta stupid to get obsessed over tight hips, but if it's time to change your body, I'm all for doing whatever it takes.

For massive flexibility gains, I usually teach passive stretching (I call them Gravity Poses). But particularly for tight hips, there are a couple of standing postures that work wonders.

Secret Hip Opener #1: Warrior I Posture

This pose is taught in almost every yoga class, but usually you just cruise through it. I like to use a clock and hold it steady for 3-5 minutes per side
(Iyengar flashbacks, anyone?). Try it and your hips will get incredibly soft and limber.

Secret Hip Opener #2: Crescent Lunge

Same idea, but take your back heel off the ground. I like to alternate static holds between Warrior I and Crescent Lunge until my hips are REALLY loose, and then I'll do some classic hip openers like a butterfly or king pigeon.

Your hips are massive joints with gobs of connective tissue that you need to train, stretch, and release. So be patient!

Please Note: in both these postures, keep your front ankle in-line with (or in front of) your front knee for safety. That's all for today.

Stay bendy,

Lucas

Yogabody Naturals LLC