This half standing forward bend yoga posture requires the practitioner to bend forward from the hips. To perform the pose correctly, the practitioner should align the hips, ankles, and knees. It is also important to maintain the posture’s integrity by keeping the spine straight. Half Standing Forward Bend Ardha Uttasana is a challenging posture that builds strength and flexibility. Its name derives from the Sanskrit word ardha, which means “half.”
Benefits of Half Standing Forward Bend
This pose is beneficial for developing inner thigh strength and flexibility. Beginners can perform the pose with their legs spread hip-distance apart.
This posture strengthens the spine and legs, while also invigorating the abdominal organs. The yogi should take deep breaths when performing the pose. They should also keep their elbows straight. Ardha Uttanasana is a suitable posture for all levels of practice, although people with back pain should avoid performing it.
As a transition pose within the Sun Salutation sequence, this posture strengthens the legs, back, shoulders, and arms. It also improves your body’s balance, stability, and stamina.
Inhale through the nose and exhale through the shoulders. As your torso bends forward, microbending your knees is a crucial component of the pose. The pose also requires alignment in the shoulders, back, and neck.
How to do Half Standing Forward Bend
- Move 1 Stand Forward Fold (Uttanasana): Press your fingertips or hands into the ground on either side of the feet, or your palms into the shins. As you inhale, raise your torso towards your thighs and straighten your elbows so that your back is parallel to your legs. This will create an inverted L shape.
- Move 2 Maintain a straight back and keep your hips above your ankles. To gaze forward, bend your knees and raise your head.
- Move 3 Keep the pose for one minute, then release into Uttanasana. Or move into a high-lunge position.
