Paschimottanasana

Sanskrit:

Paschima - west

Uttana - Intense

** when uttana is added to another word it becomes ottana

Intense stretch of the West Pose

Is sometimes called Urgasana or Brahmacharysana. Urga means formidable, powerful and noble. Brahmacharya references one of the niyamas and represents spiritual study, self-restraint, and avoiding the mis-use of sexual energy.

Benefits:

• Tones the abdominal organs, especially the liver and kidneys, and improves digestion.
  
• Rejuvenates the whole spine.
• Increased blood-flow to the pelvic area is beneficial for reproductive organs and can be a relief for women experiencing cramps.
• Beneficial for high-blood pressure, especially in complete posture due to lowering the heart.
  
• With the head supported this pose may help to calm anxiety and improve headache symptoms
  

Contraindications:

• People with very stiff lower back and/or legs may need to support sit-bones on a blanket
• Those suffering lower back injury will need to be mindful of keeping the spine long
• People suffering diarrhea should avoid full pose
• May aggravate symptoms of nausea