Suitcase Game or Paschimottanasana

This forward bend pose is great for anxious or restless kids, as it helps to calm their nervous systems and improve their mood. It also stretches the spine, shoulders, and hamstrings while stimulating the liver, kidneys, ovaries, and uterus and improving digestion.

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1. Start in a seated pose with your legs extended straight and feet flexed (if possible).

2. Pretend that your legs are the two sides of a suitcase zipper and “open” them by reaching your arms up as you inhale and then bending forward at the hips as you exhale.

3. Reach out and bring your hands as close to your toes as possible while you lean forward to open the suitcase.

4. Once the suitcase is “full,” slowly move back into your original pose.