NEW YORK,NY-For yoga practitioners struggling with flexibility,a surprising prop-a chair-is offering newfound comfort and accessibility in forward folds,according to a recent article in Yoga Journal. The modifications allow individuals to experience the benefits of poses like Wide-Legged forward Fold (Upavistha konasana) and Seated Wide-Legged Forward Fold (Prasarita parsvottanasana) without the strain of reaching the floor.
The article details two chair-supported variations. The first utilizes a chair to support a forward bend, instructing practitioners to hinge from the hips, place hands on the chair seat, and lower the chest forward, keeping the head aligned with the back. The second variation involves sitting facing a chair with legs in a V-shape, reaching forward to rest the forehead on the chair seat or crossed forearms placed on it.
“Tension in the back and hamstrings can make lowering the forehead toward the floor… uncomfortable,” Yoga Journal explains. “In this variation, the chair provides a closer destination.”
These modifications are particularly helpful for those with limited hamstring flexibility or back pain,offering a gentler pathway to deepen the stretch and experience the pose’s benefits.The article emphasizes the importance of breathing deeply throughout each pose and provides clear instructions for entering and exiting the postures safely.
