5. Lateral Dragonfly
What it does: Energizes the chest and side of the body, nourishing the heart and lung meridians. Also stimulates the meridians of the lower body, improving the flow of qi (energy) throughout your body.

How to do it: Sit on a mat with your legs in a wide straddle and your weight shifted slightly forward.

Lift your spine tall, and then lean your torso to the left and bring your left elbow to the floor in front of your left knee.

Reach the right arm overhead and let it rest on your head. Relax for one to three minutes, then return to the starting position for five breaths. Repeat on the right.

If your elbow doesn't reach the floor, rest it on a block just inside your knee or on your leg.

6. Lying Spinal Twist
What it does: Stretches the spine, abdomen, and chest, stimulating the heart meridian. Also improves digestion. "This pose is particularly helpful to anyone with diseases of the breast, heart, or lungs," says Powers, "because it gently opens the chest, encouraging the flow of qi and activating the body's natural healing response."

How to do it: Lie on your back with your knees bent, soles of the feet on the floor, and arms extended in a "T."

Drop both knees to the floor on your left, keeping your right leg stacked directly on top of your left leg and your knees at hip height. Keep your right shoulder weighted toward the floor.
Extend your right arm straight above your head. Turn your head to the left and stay for one to three minutes. 

Use your abs to bring your knees back to center. Rest here for five breaths, then switch sides and repeat. When done, hug your knees into your chest for five breaths to allow your spine to unwind.

If you find it too difficult to keep your shoulder down, place a folded blanket under your knees to make the stretch less intense.

Wrap Up
When you've completed all six moves in this sequence, unwind for one to three minutes in corpse pose: Lie on your back with your arms resting beside you, palms up. Allow your thoughts to quiet and your muscles to relax completely.

Text by Kate Hanley