Pushing back farther off the ground, bend elbows and place palms against lower back for support as you lift legs and reach feet toward ceiling. Be sure weight is distributed evenly across shoulder blades and back of head. Stop if you feel pressure on neck. Hold for 30 seconds; gradually work up to 5 minutes. Note: Do only if you have yoga experience; otherwise, do “Make It Easier” version (below).
Make it easier: Snuggle your back and butt up to a wall, then twist around so legs are straight up the wall while you lie back on the ground. (Your butt should still be tight up against where the wall meets the ground.) Press your thighs into the wall as you keep your feet parallel and slightly flexed; hold for 5 minutes.
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