Standing Forward Bend Pose

This pose is great for bringing extra circulation into the brain; it is refreshing and yet relaxing at the same time. If you have high blood pressure use caution in this pose, come out of the position slowly if you feel any pressure in the head or behind the eyes.

You will need a chair or some yoga blocks for this pose.

1. Place your chair or yoga blocks in front of you.

2. Moving mindfully bend forward until you feel a stretch in the backs of your legs. Check to see what height your hands naturally reach to, without forcing them farther. Bring your hands down to your chair or blocks, checking that you are not pushing the stretch to far. It should feel like a very easy gentle stretch at this point. (If it is not, then place a folded blanket or yoga block on top of the chair.) The idea is to use the props so that the pose can meet your body where it is right now, without any strain whatsoever.

3. Once your hands are securely on your props, slightly shift your weight to your toes. Lift your tailbone up towards the ceiling to deepen the stretch slightly.

4. Lower the heels back down but keeping the tail bone lifted. Shift your weight so that it is securely on the centers of the feet.

5. Let your back hang down as far as it will go comfortable keeping the tailbone lifted. Let your head and neck relax.

6. Hang here for as long as you are comfortable breathing evenly. Imagine that you are drawing nourishment into your brain with every breath.

7. Slowly uncurl your back, using your props to help you up (if
necessary)

8. Stand for a few minutes breathing evenly, feel and enjoy the
effects of the pose.

Benefits: Increases the circulation to the brain and sinuses. Increases flexibility in the legs and back.  Increases energy and rejuvenation. Emotionally nourishing and uplifting.

© written and modeled by Christine Wushke, Photo’s by Dianne Wushke.

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