Crocodile Yoga Pose
The Crocodile Yoga Pose is a deeply relaxing restorative pose that gently releases tension in the lower back, hips, and shoulders, promoting calm and
Description
The Crocodile Yoga Pose is a relaxing pose that helps release tension in the lower back and hips. It is performed by lying flat on the stomach and crossing the arms under the head.
How to Do Crocodile Yoga Pose
- 1Setup
Lie face down on your mat or a comfortable surface, extending your legs straight behind you with your feet relaxed and toes pointing outwards.
- 2Setup
Bring your elbows forward and cross your forearms, resting your forehead or a cheek on your stacked hands or forearms.
- 3Setup
Allow your hips to relax and gently splay outwards, feeling a mild stretch across your lower back and inner thighs.
- 4
Breathe deeply and evenly into your abdomen, allowing your body to sink further into the mat with each exhalation.
- 5
Maintain this relaxed posture, focusing on releasing any tension in your lower back, glutes, and hips.
Tips
- Use a folded blanket or pillow under your forehead or hips for added comfort and to reduce any strain on your neck or lower back.
- Focus on deep abdominal breathing, allowing your belly to expand into the mat on the inhale and soften on the exhale to deepen relaxation.
- Adjust your arm position by resting your forehead on crossed forearms, or turning your head to one side and resting a cheek on your hands, whichever feels most comfortable.
- Let gravity do the work; avoid actively pushing into the stretch and instead allow your body to naturally soften and release tension over time.
Common Mistakes
- ×Tensing the body: Holding tension in the shoulders, glutes, or jaw negates the relaxing effect; consciously soften these areas to promote full relaxation.
- ×Forcing the stretch: Actively trying to push deeper into the pose can cause discomfort; instead, allow gravity and your breath to naturally deepen the release.
- ×Holding breath: Irregular or shallow breathing can increase tension; maintain slow, deep abdominal breaths to promote relaxation and facilitate muscle release.
Variations

Tiger Yoga Pose
The Tiger Yoga Pose, or Vyaghrasana, is a dynamic stretch that strengthens your back and core while opening your hips and chest.

The Eagle Yoga Pose
The Eagle Pose (Garudasana) is a balancing yoga posture that strengthens legs, ankles, and spine while deeply stretching hips, shoulders, and upper back.

Straight Angle Yoga Pose
Master the Straight Angle Yoga Pose to deeply stretch your hamstrings, calves, and spine.

Standing Seal Yoga Pose
Release tension in your shoulders and upper back with the Standing Seal yoga pose.
Related Exercises

Animal Resting Yoga Pose
The Animal Resting Pose, or Child's Pose, offers deep relaxation and a gentle stretch for your hips, thighs, and lower back. Calms the mind and body.

Warrior II Yoga Pose
Master Warrior II, a powerful yoga pose that builds lower body strength, core stability, and mental focus. Improve balance and open your hips.

Namaskarasana Yoga Pose
Namaskarasana, or Prayer Pose, is a foundational yoga posture that promotes balance, grounding, and mental focus.

Pavanamuktasana Yoga Pose
Pavanamuktasana, or Wind-Relieving Pose, gently compresses the abdomen to aid digestion and release gas.

Worlds Greatest Stretch
Unlock full body mobility with the World's Greatest Stretch. This dynamic sequence improves hip flexibility, thoracic rotation, and hamstring length,

Toy Soldier Dynamic Stretch
The Toy Soldier is a dynamic stretch that improves hamstring and hip flexor flexibility while warming up your body for activity.
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