Restorative Yoga: Seated Wide-Legged Forward Fold
Yoga
Obie Editorial Team
Benefits and Uses
The seated wide-legged forward fold opens the hips and stretches the back and thighs. The supported (restorative) version, is less intense than a regular wide-legged forward fold and allows pregnant women to do the pose without having to hold up their back.
Directions
Sit on your mat and separate your legs as much as feels comfortable. Place a bolster or stack of blankets or pillows in between your legs (this will support your torso and belly as you come forward). Inhale deeply in order to prepare for the pose, and on your exhale slowly walk your hands out in front of you, bringing your torso down as far as it wants to go, supported by the bolster. Try to let your props hold you up instead of your back strength, which will defeat the purpose of the relaxation element of the pose. Avoid placing any strain on your neck but rather let your head rest on your props. The purpose of the pose is not to see how far down you can go, but rather to relax into the pose. You can even let your bag round (which is commonly avoided in other types of yoga) if that helps relaxation. Stay in the pose for up to five minutes, or whatever is comfortable for you.