Padahastasana (Standing Forward Bend) To Encourage Flexibility
Many people lead sedentary lifestyles with little or no exercise and, as a result, the body becomes stiff and unable to bend forward. Forward bending asanas release this rigidity. With regular practice,even the most rigid back will develop increased flexibility. Beginners should try to bring the fingertips to the floor beside the toes. If this is not possible, they can grasp the ankles or calves. Difficulty bending forward is associated with fear. Some people live in constant fear of attack from behind and the backs of their bodies unconsciously freeze. This asana is a boon to people who get excited quickly, as it shoothes the brain cells. After finishing this posture we are feeling calms and cool, the eyes start to glow and the mind feels at peace. In the Sanskrit language pada means "foot" and hasta means "hand"- "Hand to Foot Posture" and it is one of the basic postures in Hatha Yoga.
Namaste!
References:
"Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha" by Swami Satyananda Saraswati "Light on Yoga "by B.K.S.Iyengar