Paschimottanasana is one of the most basic poses in Hatha Yoga and can be one of the most relaxing if done properly. When first coming into the pose it is always best to start this pose with your knees bent no matter what level you are at in your practice. Beginners should sit up on a folded blanket in this pose, and most beginners need to hold a strap around the feet. Extremely stiff students can place a rolled up blanket under their knees.
Benefits:
* Stretches the entire West (Back) side of your body, from your heels to your neck
* Stretches the spine, legs, and feet
* Massages internal organs
* Tones the legs(quads), abdominal and back muscles
* Calms the brain and helps relieve stress and mild depression
* Stretches the spine, shoulders, hamstrings
* Stimulates the liver, kidneys, ovaries, and uterus
* Improves digestion
* Helps relieve the symptoms of menopause and menstrual discomfort
* Soothes headache and anxiety and reduces fatigue
* Therapeutic for high blood pressure, infertility, insomnia, and sinusitis
