What is Half Happy Baby Pose?

Half happy baby pose, or ardha ananda balasana in Sanskrit, is a beginner's hip opening pose and a variation on the full happy baby pose. Here, only one leg is raised; the outer arm holds the foot and the knee draws toward the floor. The pose is both relaxing and restorative.

Instructions

• Lie on the back.
• Inhale and raise the right leg up.
• Grasp the sole of the right foot with the right hand.
• Exhale, bend the knee and use the hand to draw the knee toward the armpit, while simultaneously pushing the foot back into the hand.
• Breathe while holding the pose. Change sides.

Cautions

• Bend the knee of the extended leg if needed.

Benefits of Half Happy Baby Pose

• Stretches the hips
• Opens the inner thighs and groin
• Stretches the outer thighs
• Lengthens the spine
• Eases lower back tension
• Stretches the chest and shoulders
• Relaxes the mind