Paschimothanasana (Seated Forward Bend)

Back to core postures

Sit up, keeping feet together. Inhale, raise both arms up and bend forward from the hips. Reach the toes, bring head to the knee. Hold this position for at least 1-3 minutes to reap the benefits. Do the counter-pose "Inclined Plane" immediately.

Benefits

• Massages the abdominal area and hence improves the digestive system.
• Regulates pancreatic functions that controls blood sugar levels.
• Controls diabetes, hypoglycemia.
• The entire nervous system is invigorated. Spine becomes elastic.
• Strengthens and stretches the hamstrings, lumbar and secral regions
• Calms the mind

Counter-Indications

Students should not practice Paschimothanasana if they


• are pregnant - however, they can practice this asana with legs and feet apart to accommodate for the belly.

Common Mistakes

• Knees are bent. Feet are apart.
• Head should come to the thighs isntead of the chest.
• Hold heels rather than the toes.