Standing Bow

How to

1. Stand with feet hip-width apart, grounding evenly through both feet.
2. Shift your weight onto the left foot, keeping the left leg strong and engaged.
3. Bend your right knee and bring your right heel towards your glutes, reaching your right hand back to grasp the inside of the right ankle.
4. Raise your left arm forward and up, parallel to the floor, palm facing down.
5. Inhale deeply, and as you exhale, begin to kick your right foot back into your hand, lifting your right leg and chest higher.
6. Keep your hips square and level, avoiding any twist in the torso.
7. Gaze forward or slightly upward (drishti) to maintain balance.
8. To exit, gently release the right foot with control, lower the right leg, and return to standing with feet hip-width apart.

Benefits

• Improves balance and coordination by engaging the stabilizing muscles of the standing leg.
• Enhances flexibility in the spine, hips, and shoulders as the back leg is lifted.
• Strengthens the legs, particularly the quadriceps and hamstrings of the standing leg.
• Opens the chest and stretches the front body, promoting better posture and respiratory function.
• Calms the mind and enhances focus through the integration of breath and steady gaze.