Standing Separate Leg Stretching Pose
Dandayamana Bibhaktapada Paschimottanasana
Medical Benefits:
· Cures and prevents sciatica by stretching and strengthening the sciatic nerves and the tendons of the legs
· Helps the functioning of most of the internal abdominal organs, especially the small and large intestine
· Improves the muscle tone and flexibility of thighs and calves and the flexibility of the pelvis, ankles, and hip joints, and of the last five vertebrae of the spine
· Increases circulation to the brain, adrenal glands, liver and spleen
· Centers nervous system
· Good for depression and insomnia prevention or treatment, helps by stimulating a healthy pineal gland
· Good for constipation
· Helps with diabetes
· Releases lower back
Tips
· Use your strength to develop your flexibility. PULL!
· The power you generate by pulling on your heels stretches the legs, hips, and spine.
· Keep thighs tight and your knees locked.
· If you can't grab your heels, grab anywhere underneath the outside edge of your feet. Turning the toes slightly inward may help.
· Big exhales will relax your muscles more and more so that you can sink deep and comfortable in the posture.
· The wider the stance the easier the stretch. If your forehead is touching the floor, shorten your step so you can stretch more.
