KneelingBeginner

Wide-Knee Rest Pose

Wide Knee Balasana

Yoga practitioner resting in Wide-Knee Rest Pose
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About This Pose

Wide-Knee Rest Pose (Child's Pose variation) brings the knees wide while maintaining the restful, folded position. This modification opens the hips and allows the torso to sink between the thighs, creating space for the belly and chest. It's particularly beneficial for those with tight hips who find traditional Child's Pose restrictive.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Begin in tabletop position

  2. 2

    Bring your big toes together

  3. 3

    Widen your knees toward the edges of the mat

  4. 4

    Lower your hips back toward your heels

  5. 5

    Walk your hands forward and lower your torso

  6. 6

    Rest your forehead on the mat or a block

  7. 7

    Relax completely for 1-5 minutes

Alignment Cues

  • Let the belly drop between the thighs
  • Keep the neck long and relaxed
  • Allow the hips to settle naturally
  • Breathe deeply into the back body

Benefits

  • Opens hips gently
  • Creates torso space
  • Promotes relaxation
  • Accommodates tight hips
  • Releases lower back
  • Deeply restorative

Modifications

  • Place a bolster under the torso
  • Use a blanket under the knees

Variations

  • Arms alongside body for more release

Cautions & Contraindications

Cautions

  • Support the knees if sensitive
  • Don't force the hip opening

Avoid this pose if you have:

  • Knee pain
  • Hip injury

Use This Pose

Quick Facts

Primary Focus

hips

Secondary Focus

spineshoulders

Suggested Hold

120 seconds

Tags

restorativehipsrestrelaxation

Equipment

yoga matbolster (optional)