Spring is almost here and what better way to celebrate then to revisit a great Pilates stretch, the Mermaid.
The Mermaid is one of my favorite of all Pilates stretches. It stretches out the upper body, opens up the chest and lengthens the side body in a way you normally don't get to.
Instructions-
Side Mermaid Stretch- Deep Pilates Breathing Work
Starting Position
Sit on the floor, both knees bent, with your left leg in front and your right leg behind you. If you feel okay stack knees and ankles on top of each other to the side. Lengthen your spine and place your fingertips on the floor at your sides.
Action
Lift your left arm up in line with the shoulder as your bend laterally towards the right side as if bringing your right shoulder towards your right hip. Gaze is up towards the sky. Neck is long. No compression in the spine.
Breathe deeply and hold for 10-30 seconds. Repeat on opposite side.
