How to Do the Seated Forward Bend With a Yoga Strap

The yoga seated forward bend, or the Western intense stretch posture, is one of the most basic of all yoga moves; however, that doesn't mean that it comes easily. The best way to increase your flexibility in strides and bounds in yoga is to ensure that you are comfortable in your poses, modifying them if necessary. Using a strap as you learn the seated forward bend can help.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of your and your back held tall and straight. Lean forward and wrap a yoga strap around the balls of your feet, holding onto each end and then sit up tall once again. Keep your feet flexed, pulling your toes up towards your torso.

2. Keep your legs straight at all time during the pose. Inhale deeply, pushing your tailbone into the floor and then exhale as you lean forward into the seated forward bend. Keep your back flat, bending forward at the hips, and slowly walk your hands up the straps as far as you can comfortably without bending your knees or causing discomfort.

3. Make sure that your elbows are turned out to the sides and breathe deeply into the pose. With each exhale, try to lean forward a bit further, inching up the strap towards your toes. Hold the pose for five full breaths and then slowly come up to sitting as you exhale.

4. Continue practicing the yoga seated forward bend with the strap. When you can grip the sides of your feet comfortably without curving the spine or bending the knees, you can begin practicing the pose without the help of the yoga strap.

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