Forever balanced, equal and simultaneous, 50/50

Like Standing Head to Knee, this pose helps develop concentration, patience and determination. Physically it develops balance, firms the abdominal wall and thighs, and tightens upper arms, hips, and buttocks. It increases the size and elasticity of the rib cage and the lungs and improves the flexibility and strength of the lower spine, legs, hips and shoulders.

Strengthens:

• Quadriceps
• Gulteus Maximus

Stretches:

• Trapezius
• Latisimus Dorsi
• Sartorius
• Hamstrings
• Pectorals
• Diaphragm
• Ribcage
• Spine

Stimulates:

• Circulatory System
• Digestive System
• Reproductive System
• Urinary System
• Endocrine System
• Heart
• Kidneys

Benefits:

• Creates natural irrigation of the circulatory system – transfers blood flow from one side of the body to the other.
• Clears plaque off artery walls.
• Eases back pain through compression of the spine.
• Improves elasticity of the spine.
• Tones hips and buttocks.
• Strengthens the ankles and knees.
• Helps with frozen shoulder.
• Helps alleviate carpal tunnel, arthritis, tennis elbow.
• Helps with cervical spondylosis.
• Good for prenatal recovery.
• Stretches diaphragm and ribcage improving respiration (breathing).
• Flushes kidneys, bladder and urinary system.
• Alleviates gas, constipation and clears digestion.
• Improves balance.
• Develops determination, patience and self-confidence.

Standing bow-pulling pose is incredibly effective at flushing the circulatory system. The pose moves blood flow from one side of the body, forcing it into the other and creating a profound circulatory flush. Standing bow is a very expressive pose, helping to open the shoulders, hips, and spine to  release emotion and stress. As in Standing Head to Knee, the position of the chest increases pressure on the heart to stimulate and exercise the cardiovascular system.

Thank you to Bikram Yoga San Antonio and Bikram Yoga East York for contributing to this post.