I get these daily emails from Yoga Journal, which I think are really great. They remind me of things to focus on, and also things I can "let go" of. I meant to post one email that was titled "mind chatter!" But that's beside the point. My point today is that Janu Sirasana is one of my favorite poses. It's easy to do, and when done properly, uses your whole body to twist slightly and fold forward. Make sure to spend the time getting into proper position and avoid just collapsing forward.
Here's the info from Yoga Journal:
Tune Your Hamstrings
Think your hamstrings are too tight to forward bend? Then Janu Sirsasana (Head-to-Knee Pose) is the pose for you. This asana is attainable even for those with little flexibility. Its benefits-mental clarity, improved digestion, decreased stress-make it a welcome addition to any practice.
Janu Sirsasana is easier than other forward bends because it allows you to stretch one leg at a time-it cuts the resistance you may feel in your hamstrings when you fold forward in half.
Here's how to try it:
Sit upright with your legs extended on the floor in front of you. Bend your right knee up to the ceiling and pull your heel in toward your buttocks. Let your knee open out to the right until it touches or almost touches the floor. Place the sole of your right foot on your left thigh and flex your left foot. Twist toward your left leg and hold your thigh, ankle, or foot with both hands (or you can hold on to a strap wrapped around the left foot). Inhale and lengthen your spine, then exhale and gently fold deeper into the pose. Remain for five to 10 breaths, then switch sides.
Janu Sirsasana is a calming, cooling pose. As it becomes more comfortable to perform, you may find yourself ready for more challenging forward bends.
Janu Sirsasana (Head-to-Knee Pose)
http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/476_1.cfm?ctsrc=nldn
Long and Strong
http://www.yogajournal.com/practice/1849_1.cfm?ctsrc=nldn
tags: yoga asana janu sirasana stretching health body
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