Karen Reeves demonstrates Reclined Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose A. Be the first to respond with her location and receive a free yoga class. Photo: Fred Padilla
By Karen Watson Reeves
In looking back over the list* of poses I have written about in this space (yes, I am definitely a list-maker), I was surprised that Supta Padangusthasana A (yep, that is a mouthful, but so is the English translation, Reclined Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose A) was not on the list, as it is one of my favorite and most beneficial poses. Because most of our days are filled with activity and busyness, any of the reclined poses tend to feel good to me, whether first thing in the morning preparing for the busy day ahead or in the evening getting a nice stretch moving into a restful night.
One of the primary physical benefits of this pose is that it is a great stretch for tight hamstrings, which most of us tend to have. Tight hamstrings can cause low back pain and discomfort and just general feelings of inflexibility. This pose gives those muscles a nice gentle stretch and can be modified to be even more gentle by using a strap around the foot. It is most beneficial to stay in the pose for at least ten slow, deep breaths.
The spine is supported by the floor, making it feel more relaxing. The supine position also provides relief for the lower back. The leg extended on the floor tightens the quadriceps and brings body awareness to both legs at the same time.
Because athletes tend to have strong hamstrings and quadriceps, the pose can be helpful to practice before and after workouts/sporting events.
Sciatic pain can be reduced because of the increased blood flowing toward the hip and thigh of the raised leg. Also, the nerves around the hamstrings and hips are stretched. While most of the attention is on the legs in this posture, it is also a good stretch to the arm and shoulder holding the leg up.
The astute reader may have wondered about the “A” at the end of the posture’s name. Yes, there are variations B and C as well, which I equally love, so stay tuned to future articles to learn more about Reclined Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose. And definitely give version A a try!
*In looking back over the list of poses, I discovered this is pose #61 that I have written for The Springs Magazine, going into six years! I am so grateful to share this space with readers for so many months. Pose #61 is brought to you by the numbers 4, 2, and 0. (hint: that is a clue to where I am, and the first correct response gets the reader a free class!)
Karen Watson Reeves has called Hot Springs home since 2006. Owner of The Yoga Place, at 301 Whittington Avenue, she became a registered yoga/children’s yoga teacher in 2011. She is on the Hot Springs YMCA teaching staff and is an adjunct instructor at National Park College. When not on the mat, Karen enjoys the beautiful outdoors of the National Park, especially from her bicycle. For more information about her studio and her schedule of classes, visitwww.theyogaplacehs.com.
