Forward bends have a reputation for drawing us inward and encouraging introspection. While I doubt there’s scientific proof of this, they do seem to have a calming, nurturing effect on my nervous system, as well as the nervous systems of my students. Practicing forward bends, such as Janu Sirsasana (Head-of-the-Knee Pose), Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend Pose) or Upavista Konasana (Seated Angle Pose) toward the end of an asana practice may even help us internalize and integrate the poses that came...

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