Forward bends were the most difficult for my body to learn.
Over time with practice, perseverance, and persistence, my body gained the elasticity needed to enjoy this relaxing group of poses.
All of these asanas have cumulative and profound effects on the abdominal organs. They help by tonifying and massaging the digestive system, stomach, liver, spleen, pancreas, and gallbladder. This in turn aids in relieving constipation, excess gas, and helps counteract diabetes.
The kidneys, located in the back of the body, are stretched and stimulated which aids the urinary tract.
Forward bends are good for women on their cycle to regulate the flow, as well as to relieve the aches and pains and quiet the mind. For women who have delivered a baby, forward bends can assist the uterus, which often drops, helping to reestablish its correct position.
The entire back—from the lumbar to the thoracic, through the cervical spine—is strengthened and toned.
All of this has a soothing effect on the nerves, helping to restore a calm and quiet mind. If one has high blood pressure this practice can be especially soothing.
Asanas in this sequence:
Adho Mukha Virasana ( Downward Facing Hero Pose )
Adho Mukha Svanasana ( Downward Dog Pose )
Uttanasana ( Standing Forward Bend Pose )
Tadasana ( Mountain Pose )
Prasarita Padottanasana ( Wide Stance Forward Bend Pose )
Parsvottanasana ( Pyramid Pose )
Upavistha Konasana ( Wide Angle Seated Forward Bend )
Dandasana ( Staff Pose )
Janu Sirsasana ( Head to Knee Pose )
Paschimottanasana ( Seated Forward Bend )
Forward Sukhasana ( Forward Easy Pose )
Supta Baddha Konasana ( Reclined Bound Angle )
Savasana ( Corpse Pose )
