Reach up and over the top of the head with one hand, making light contact with the opposite side of your skull.
Using the finger pads, lightly guide the head upward and towards the elbow, lengthening the spine in a gentle side arc. Release the jaw so that the mouth can open.
The other forearm can rest in the lower back area if it’s comfortable. Allow the lower back to spread and open into this contact with the forearm.
Send the elbows in opposite directions – one toward the sky, the other toward the ground.
If it’s interesting to you, allow the shoulder point on the lower side to paint some gentle shapes in the air.
Allow breath as you continue to soften and lengthen into this shape. Allow the spine to lengthen in both directions.
Maintain awareness of your feet and legs, allowing them to support you.
You might feel opening through the sides of your body and the ribs.
Continue to allow breath. Is there any way this exercise could feel more spacious, pleasurable, alive or present for you? Adapt this shape for your needs.
Release, and move the other side.
When you’re done, try to take the positive effects of your work with you into the next thing you do.