Padahasthasana (Standing Forward Bend)

Back to core postures

It is a known fact that "you are as young as your spine". Padahasthasana promotes youthful vigor throughout life.

Stand with feet together, inhale raise both arms over head and bend forward from the hips. Keep knees straight and bring the head closer to the knee. Bring the weight forward on the balls of the feet by stretching the hip forward.

Benefits

• Spine is lengthened, joints are lubricated and perennial youth is established.
• Hamstrings, muscles in the back of the legs are stretched.
• Increased blood supply to the brain and hence akin to the Sirsasana.
• The lower abdomen fat will disappear with prolonged practice.

Counter-Indications

Students should not practice Padahasthasana if they


• are pregnant - pada hasthasana can be practiced with feet apart.

Common Mistakes

• Knees are bent.
• Head is not close to the legs.
• Weight is on the heels, hips should be raised so that weight is on the toes.