1. Start in a seated position on the floor with your knees bent, feet flat on the ground, and arms resting at your sides.
2. Lean back slightly, engaging your core and lifting your chest toward the ceiling to maintain a straight spine.
3. Lift your feet off the floor, balancing on your sit bones, and straighten your legs at an upwards angle to create a V-shape with your torso and thighs.
4. Extend your arms forward, parallel to the ground or holding on to your legs just below the knees for additional support.
5. Hold this position, making sure to keep your back straight, your core engaged, and your legs as straight as possible. Your body should resemble the shape of a boat, hence the name "Boat Stretch."
6. Maintain the pose for a set duration or number of breaths, typically between 20 to 30 seconds, or as long as comfortable while maintaining proper form.
7. Gently release the pose, returning your feet to the ground and relaxing your arms to your sides.
8. Repeat the stretch for the desired number of repetitions.
This exercise is especially beneficial for improving core strength and stability, promoting better posture, and enhancing balance and flexibility in the hip flexors and abdomen.
