Child's Pose Side Stretch Yoga Pose

Restore, Relax, and Recharge with This Stretch

The Child’s Pose Side Stretch is a gentle yet effective yoga movement designed to improve your flexibility, relieve tension, and create space in your body. Whether you’re a beginner stepping onto the mat for the first time or an experienced yogi, this stretch offers a restorative experience that’s all about relaxing deeply while increasing mobility.

What Is the Child’s Pose Side Stretch?

The Child’s Pose Side Stretch combines the comfort of traditional Child’s Pose with an added lateral extension to target your side body. It’s a simple variation that amplifies the benefits of a standard pose by focusing on lengthening the obliques, intercostals (muscles between your ribs), and even the shoulders. Positioned close to the ground in a kneeling posture, this stretch invites both physical and mental relaxation while gently opening up space in the torso and lower back.

Benefits of Incorporating This Stretch Into Your Routine

Adding the Child’s Pose Side Stretch to your yoga or self-care practice can support your body and mind in numerous ways. Some of the top benefits include:

Enhanced Flexibility: Lengthens and stretches the muscles along your side body, obliques, and spine.
Tension Relief: Gently unwinds tightness in the lower back, shoulders, and neck, perfect for those with sedentary lifestyles or desk jobs.
Improved Breathing: Opens the intercostal muscles, expanding your capacity for deeper and fuller breaths.
Relaxation: Promotes a sense of peace by activating your parasympathetic nervous system for stress relief.
Balanced Mobility: Complements other yoga poses and exercises by restoring balance to the body’s range of motion.

How Often Should You Do Yoga Poses?

For the best results, aim to include the Child’s Pose Side Stretch in your routine two to three times a week—or even daily—especially if you feel tension or stiffness in your back or sides. It’s a wonderful cooldown pose post-workout or a quick tension reliever at the end of your day.

Learn with Yoga Instructor Stefan Storace

If you’re ready to master the most effective yoga poses, we have you covered! Yoga instructor Stefan Storace (ERYT-200) has created a set of instructional videos to guide you step by step. Whether you’re new to yoga or looking to perfect your flow, Stefan’s expertise will help you perform this pose with confidence and ease.

Want personalized guidance? Schedule a 1-on-1 session or a class with Stefan at Garden of Yoga.

Take a Yoga Class Online or In Person

Beyond yoga poses, Garden of Yoga offers an inspiring range of classes designed to support your wellness goals. From calming restorative sessions to energizing flows, our classes cater to all levels and schedules. Join our community of like-minded individuals and experience how yoga can transform your mind, body, and life.

Explore our class schedule and sign up today to take your practice to the next level!

2025 Class Schedule

We offer flexible class times and formats so you can find the balance that fits your life. We offer classes in person at our studio and online! Classes are scheduled in Pacific Standard Time.

Weekly Schedule

Monday: 5:00 PM Mindful Yoga with Stefan
Tuesday: 9:30 AM Pranayama & Meditation with Stefan | 5:00 PM Restorative Yoga with Stefan
Wednesday: 5:00 PM Mindful Yoga with Stefan
Thursday: 9:30 AM Gentle Yoga with Diana | 5:00 PM Restorative Yoga with Stefan
Sunday: 10:00 AM Mindful Yoga with Stefan | 11:30 AM Mixed Level Yoga with Diana

Don’t see the class you are looking for? Check out our complete yoga class list or reach out to learn more about our personalized yoga sessions.

See What Our Students Are Saying

A good friend of mine brought me to the Garden of Yoga when we were seventeen. We used to commute to Bryan Kest's Power Yoga in Santa Monica for Sunday morning sessions. On the days we didn't feel like commuting we'd come here. Stefan and his wife are the real deal, they have literally committed their lives to each other, their family, and the practice of yoga. Their technique is a blend of many masters from India. They don't play music in any of the classes, but instead they fill the air with mantras and other beautiful sounds. The class is not rushed at all and their attentiveness to your practice is very present. I really love the location of this studio, it's very serene and cozy. They're both incredibly personable and generous people. This is a very special gem in California.

The teacher makes all the difference!! Diana and Stefan are the BEST!!! They changed my yoga experience and practice and life!! If you are considering yoga or want to try, just stop in to this causal, warm inviting home based studio. No stress and no pretentious People here. As they will tell you time and time again, yoga is not a competition, it Should feel good!! And at Garden of yoga it does feel good. I have been to other studios and I always feel like I am cheating on them. It's that good. If you want a easy, relaxing experience try restorative class. Offered about once a Month or so these classes are super good. If you want hard, take an advanced or private.

You know how hard it is to find an amazing yoga teacher that inspires you and guides you with a perfect blend of knowledge and humor? Let me introduce you to Stefan! His beautiful, peaceful sanctuary is nestled at the end of a cul-de-sac in a quiet and private location and Stefan will make you so grateful you found it. I met Stefan through my teacher training and was totally impressed with the depth of his knowledge and the easy skill he wields in his practices which are fun, challenging, and educational (at least for me!). I highly recommend the Garden of Yoga if you're looking for an expertly executed and engaging yoga experience.

FAQ

Can I still do yoga if I'm really inflexible?

The more inflexible you are, the better yoga works. It’s not about how deep you can stretch into poses, it’s more about listening to your body.

How long should I wait to eat before yoga?

It’s best on an empty stomach but if you must eat before class then a light snack that is easily digested. We also recommended that you are properly hydrated before a class so drink some water.

How often should I practice yoga?

We suggest at least two or three times a week, for at least 20- 75 minutes per session. Most importantly listen to your body and make decisions based on how you feel.