Pose of the month - Uttanasana

Uttanasana - (standing forward bend) is a pose that requires a bit of self-discipline and patience. At first glance it looks simple enough but it can be quite challenging, physically and mentally. 

I find the temptation to come up and out of this pose, to bend my knees or move my arms hard to resist. Closing my eyes and following my breath certainly helps to stay focussed and not get so distracted or irritated.

You don't need any props and can take the feet apart. Keeping your legs straight, let your spine and head release down towards the floor. Hold on to opposite elbows or let the arms reach down - stay for at least 1 minute.

Benefits: stretches and lengthens the entire back body from the heels, up the back of the legs (hamstrings!) and along the spine and neck. It helps calm the mind, improves digestion and relieves headaches and anxiety!