Standing Forward Bend
Audio File
Instructions
Start standing with your hands on your hips. Exhale to hinge from the hips and bend forward. Think about creating as much length as possible from your hips to your head.
Release your fingertips toward the ground or your blocks.
Root down into the four corners of your feet.
Release the back of your head and neck.
On inhales, feel your torso lengthen, and on exhales, feel your chest reach toward your toes.
Stay for up to one minute.
To exit the pose, return your hands to your hips and slowly lift up, keeping the length in the front and back of your torso.
Modifications
Bend knees slightly
Contraindications
Back injuries
Type of pose
Standing
Parts of Body Benefited
Calms the brain and helps relieve stress and mild depression
Stimulates the liver and kidneys
Stretches the hamstrings, calves, and hips
Strengthens the thighs and knees
Improves digestion
Helps relieve the symptoms of menopause
Reduces fatigue and anxiety
Relieves headache and insomnia
Therapeutic for asthma, high blood pressure, infertility, osteoporosis, and sinusitis