Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)

Seated Forward Fold

The quintessential seated forward fold that stretches the entire back body — from the heels to the crown of the head — with a calming, introspective quality.

✨ Benefits

Deeply stretches hamstrings and spine, calms the nervous system, stimulates digestive organs, relieves stress and mild depression, improves kidney function

📋 How to Do It

Sit with legs extended. Flex feet, pressing through heels. Inhale, lengthen spine tall. Exhale, hinge forward from hips. Reach for feet, shins, or use a strap. Keep spine long rather than rounding. Relax head and neck.

💡 Tips

Prioritize a long spine over reaching the feet. Bend knees slightly if needed. Use a strap to maintain length. Each exhale, allow a gentle release deeper.

⏱️ Duration / Frequency

Hold 1-5 minutes, breathing deeply

⚠️ Contraindications

Herniated disc, sciatica, hamstring tears, asthma

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▶ Video Tutorials

Watch step-by-step demonstrations on YouTube.

▶ Watch on YouTube