Poses
Seated Forward Fold
Paschimottanasana · POSH-ee-moh-tan-AHS-anna
Forward fold · beginner
Glossary: Paschimottanasana
Breath Deepen fold on exhalesDuration 1-3 minutes
Pronunciation
How to
- Sit with legs extended straight
- Flex feet, pressing through heels
- Inhale and lengthen spine
- Exhale and fold forward from hips
- Reach for feet, ankles, or shins
- Keep spine long, avoid rounding
Benefits
- Stretches spine and hamstrings
- Calms the mind
- Relieves stress
- Massages internal organs
Caution
- Back injury
- Asthma
- Diarrhea
Tips
- Lead with chest, not head
- Focus on lengthening, not depth
Variations
- Bent knees
- Strap around feet