Uttanasana – Weekly Advanced Class 306

This class focuses exclusively on the yoga pose uttanasana, or the standing forward bend. It explores its fundamental techniques, modifications and applications. Uttanasana is a key pose in terms of linking standing poses to seated forward bends. For many, practicing forward bends while seated can be more challenging, especially because of restricted mobility in the legs, pelvis, and spine. Sitting can also make the hamstrings feel tighter, which might potentially put strain on your lower back. Uttanasana and its standing variations allow us to address these challenges, ensuring we support the spine correctly. It gives us the opportunity to target areas like the hamstrings without misaligning the back or stressing it. To help with this, in this class we’ll use props like yoga chairs, blocks, belts, and walls. We’ll also touch on more advanced related poses like padangusthasana towards the end of the class.