Wide-Legged Standing Forward Bend
Sanskrit Name: Prasarita Padottanasana
Challenge Level: Medium
Wide-legged forward bend is a standing forward bend that stretches the neck, back, calves and hamstrings. It is also a slight inversion that helps the blood flow to the head and upper parts of the body. From mountain pose, take a wide stance, keeping the feet parallel and the toes turned slightly inward. With the hands on the hips, the body bends forward until the hands can reach down to touch the floor. Advanced practitioners can rest the crown of the head on the floor.
Categories
Standing Yoga Poses
Standing poses build strength and stability. The awareness is on physical and mental balance. To stand erect, the feet must be firmly planted on the ground, with the spine stretching upward and the head lifted. These foundation poses provide entry into standing on one leg.
Forward Bend Yoga Poses
Forward bends, also called forward folds, are yoga postures where you hinge forward at your hips. There are many forward folds, both standing and seated, that are commonly practiced in various forms across all styles of yoga. While backbends open the frontside of your body, forward bends open the backside and generally create length throughout. Physically, this improves posture and helps you stand taller.
Inversion Yoga Poses
Any pose in which your heart is higher from the ground than your head is considered an inversion asana. Yoga inversion is believed to release tension, increase circulation and energy levels, and strengthen muscles. It’s also thought to promote emotional growth, calm the mind and spirit, guide energy toward the heart, and help you become more connected with the earth.