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Half Bound Lotus Forward Bend

Ardha Baddha Padma Paschimottanasana

ARD-hah BAH-dah PAH-dmah pah-shee-moh-tan-AHS-ah-nah

A deep seated forward fold that combines a half lotus leg with a forward bend. It offers an intense hip opening and hamstring stretch, while promoting introspection and calming the mind.

Chakras
PrimarySvadhisthana (Sacral)
SecondaryMuladhara (Root)
Gaze:Toes
Quick Summary
  • Enter Half Lotus with one leg, extend the other.

  • Reach back to bind the lotus foot with the opposite hand.

  • Fold forward from the hips over the extended leg.

Foundation
  • Ensure the knee of the lotus leg is comfortable; if there's pain, release the lotus.

  • Root down through the sitting bones, especially the one of the extended leg.

Alignment
  • Keep the spine long and straight as you fold; lead with the chest.

  • Square the shoulders toward the extended leg.

  • Micro-bend the extended knee if hamstrings are very tight.

Inhale to lengthen, exhale to deepen the fold.
seatedforward-bendhip-opener