yoga tip-pose of the week

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Pose of the Week: Head to Knee Pose (Janu Sirsasana)

Think your hamstrings are too tight to ever try a forward bend? Then Head to Knee Pose is the pose for you. Because it allows you to stretch one leg at a time, this asana is attainable even for those with little flexibility. And its benefits — mental clarity, improved digestion, decreased stress — make it a welcome addition to any practice. Head to Knee Pose is sometimes called "separate leg stretching" because it allows you to stretch one leg at a time. That's why it's so much easier than other forward bends — it cuts in half the resistance you may feel when you fold forward. Here's how to give this pose a try: Sit upright with your legs extended. Bend your right knee up to the ceiling and pull your heel in toward your hip. Then 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 onto it with both hands. (You can grab your leg, ankle, or foot.) Inhale and lengthen your spine, then exhale and fold into the pose. Remain for five to ten breaths, then switch sides. As Head to Knee Pose becomes more comfortable for you, you may find yourself ready for more challenging forward bends.