How to Do the Locust Pose

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Watch more How to Do Yoga Poses videos: howcast.com/videos/383-How-to-Do-the-Locust-Pose

If you're a little wary of imitating an insect best known for "plagues," we understand. But the Locust Pose is great for strengthening your back and abdominals muscles—quietly.

Step 1: Lie on stomach
Lie down on your stomach, with your arms on the mat near the sides of your body and your hands by your hips.

Step 2: Rest forehead on mat
Rest your forehead on the mat with your neck relaxed, or lie your head down turned to one side.

Step 3: Lift off ground
On an exhale, lift your head, arms, chest, and legs off the ground. Keep your legs straight and together, and your arms parallel to the ground.

Tip
If you have trouble lifting both legs together, raise one and hold it for several seconds, then lower it and repeat with the other leg.

Step 4: Look forward
Look straight forward, or if your neck feels tense, look down toward the ground.

Tip
If you have trouble raising your arms up, drop your palms to the mat and press down gently to help lift and expand your chest.

Step 5: Hold pose
Hold the pose for several breaths.

Tip
If it hurts your hips to assume this pose, place a towel between your hip bones and the mat for added cushioning.

Step 6: Release pose
Release the pose by lowering your legs, torso, and arms. Not so bad, right? Especially if you only do the pose once every 17 years.

Did You Know?
Locusts are actually grasshoppers—they're referred to as locusts during the "swarming" stage of their life.