Side-Lying Rest
Maya - Pose Assistant
Ask me anything about Side-Lying Rest
Benefits
A pregnancy-safe final relaxation pose performed lying on the side instead of the back. This position improves circulation, reduces pressure on major blood vessels, and provides comfort throughout pregnancy.
Practice Guide
Lie on your left side (preferred for circulation) on a mat or comfortable surface.
Place a bolster or thick pillow between your knees and ankles.
Use a pillow or bolster under your head and neck for support.
Optional: place a small pillow or towel under your belly for extra support.
Let your bottom arm rest comfortably - under pillow, extended, or bent.
Rest top arm wherever comfortable - on top leg, behind you, or on a pillow.
Close your eyes and focus on breath.
Stay for 5-15 minutes, allowing complete relaxation.
To exit, slowly press top hand down and roll to hands and knees, then sit up.
Modifications
Use more pillows for support - under belly, between arms, behind back
Place rolled towel behind back to prevent rolling backward
Use eye pillow or light blanket over eyes
Cover with blanket for warmth
Right side is okay if left side is uncomfortable
Safety Notes
⚠None specific to side-lying position
⚠Severe hip or shoulder pain on supporting side
⚠Recent surgery on supporting side
Anatomy
Muscles Targeted
Muscles Stretched
What's Next?
Maya suggests trying these poses:
Focus Areas
Yoga Styles
Sequencing
Warm-up Poses
Counter Poses
✨ Maya's Tips
These insights help Maya understand how this pose flows with others when creating sequences and classes.