Forward BendsBeginner
Seated Forward Bend
Paschimottanasana
Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana) offers a classic, full-length stretch along the back body while calming the nervous system.
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How to Perform
- 1
Sit in Dandasana with legs together and toes flexed toward the shins.
- 2
Inhale, reach arms forward to hold feet, ankles, or a strap while lengthening spine.
- 3
Exhale to hinge from hips, drawing belly and ribs toward thighs.
- 4
Relax shoulders as elbows widen, allowing forehead then chin to approach the shins.
- 5
Maintain steady breathing for 5–10 breaths, then rise slowly on an inhale.
Benefits
- Stretches the entire posterior chain—from calves and hamstrings to spine.
- Massages abdominal organs and supports digestion and elimination.
- Soothes the nervous system and helps relieve fatigue or mild anxiety.
Alignment Cues
- Kneecaps lift to activate quadriceps.
- Shoulders stay away from ears even as arms reach.
- Spine lengthens from sacrum to crown without forcing.
- Weight stays evenly distributed across sit bones.
Common Mistakes
No common mistakes listed.
Contraindications
- • Acute low back injury
- • Pregnancy after first trimester without props
Recommended Props
Strap around feetBolster over legsBlanket under hips