Standing Forward Bend

Standing Forward Bend

Yoga

SANSKRIT: Uttanasana (oot-tan-AHS-anah)

DESCRIPTION: From a standing position, the body is folded over at the crease of the hip with the spine long. The neck is relaxed and the crown of the head is towards the earth. The feet are rooted into the earth with the toes actively lifted. The spine is straight. The ribcage is lifted. The chest and the thighs are connected. The sacrum lifts up toward the sky in dog tilt. The fingertips are resting on the earth next to the toes. The gaze is down or slightly forward.

BENEFITS: Calms the brain and helps relieve stress and mild depression. Stimulates the liver and kidneys. Stretches the hamstrings, calves, and hips. Strengthens the thighs and knees. Improves digestion. Helps relieve the symptoms of menopause. Reduces fatigue and anxiety. Relieves a headache and insomnia.

Half Moon Pose

Half Moon Pose

Yoga

SANSKRIT: Ardha Chandrasana (ar-dha chahn-DRAHS-anna)

DESCRIPTION: From a standing position one leg is straight while the other is extended back parallel to the earth (or a little above parallel) and one hand is on the earth (beyond the little-toe side of the foot, about 12 inches) while the other hand is extended up towards the sky. The shoulder blades are squeezed together and the fingers move outward in opposing directions. The weight of the body is supported mostly by the standing leg while the bottom hand has very little weight on it but is used intelligently to regulate balance. The upper torso is rotated open to the sky. Both hips are externally rotated. Energy is extended actively through the flexed toes to keep the raised leg strong. The inner ankle of the standing foot is lifted strongly upward, as if drawing energy from the earth. The sacrum and scapulae are firmly pressed against the back torso and lengthen the coccyx toward the raised foot. The gaze is either up or down, depending on the condition of the neck. If injured the gaze is down.

BENEFITS: Strengthens the abdomen, ankles, thighs, buttocks and spine. Stretches the groins, hamstrings, calves, shoulders, chest and spine. Improves coordination and sense of balance. Helps relieve stress. Improves digestion.

Extended Hand to Big Toe Pose

Extended Hand to Big Toe Pose

Yoga

SANSKRIT: Utthita Hasta Padangustasana (oo-tee-tah ha-sta pad-an-goosh-TAHS-anah)

DESCRIPTION: From Mountain (Tāḍāsana) pose, lift one foot. Bend forward and catch the toes with the fingers. Place the other hand on the hip to square the hip towards the front. Slowly straighten the knee and the torso and open the leg to one side. Use a strap if necessary. Gaze towards the front or opposite of the extended leg for balance.

BENEFITS: Opens the hips and groins. Stretches the hamstrings, IT bands and legs. Improves balance.