Butterfly pose is one of the most accessible forward folds in the yin yoga practice. It’s a great pose to open up the back, hips, and adductors (inner legs). And it targets the Gall Bladder, Kidney, Liver, and Urinary Bladder meridians in the Chinese system.
It’s a great low back stretch for people who are sometimes limited in other forward folds by tight hamstrings, and it’s an option during pregnancy because of the space it provides for the belly.
Yin Yoga Butterfly Pose
Remember to elevate the hips if you don’t have an anterior (forward) tilt in the pelvis, if you experience sciatica, or if you have a history of disc or SI joint issues. You may also want to support your legs if you have knee pain or limitations.
If you experience pain in the upright pose or you’re avoiding forward folding, you can take a lying butterfly on your back with the legs and feet in the same position or against the wall. This is especially helpful for people who are avoiding forward folding due to disc issues in the lower back.
To release the pose, inhale as you come up, extend your legs in front of you, and rest back on your hands, or take a windshield wiper-like action with your legs and knees.
You can also check out the half butterfly pose here.
