Supta Padangusthasana (Reclined Hand to Toe) — Overview — for Yoga Teachers, Yoga Therapists, Health & Wellness Coaches, Holistic Healthcare Providers
About this Asana Digest
Pose
Supta Padangusthasana (Reclined Hand to Toe / Reclined Big Toe)
Objective
Become knowledgeable about the pose and review detailed teaching considerations.
Description
Explain the Sanskrit naming; contraindications and cautions; associated benefits and typical effects; instructions and cues for setting up and practicing the pose; variations to meet particular intentions and needs; and more teaching considerations.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Asana Digests focus in on teaching specific poses. Please be aware of the groundwork and teaching support here: Asana Category – Forward Bend & Hip Stretching
Supta Padangusthasana
soop-TAH-pod-ang-goosh-TAHS-anna
“supta” = reclining
“pada” = foot
“angusta” = big toe
Reclined Hand to Toe
Also known as: Reclined Big Toe
Heart of the Pose
- Forward Bend
- Hip & Leg Stretch
Notes
- Baxter Bell, MD advises that those with sciatic issues avoid the leg out to side version.
- Known for relieving low back pain.
- Good pose for times when seated and standing forward bends put low back at risk—such as for students with tight hamstrings or back issues such as disk injury.
- Considered a preliminary pose for seated postures and advanced poses.
- Can provide hip opening and hamstring stretch in preparation for seated forward bends.
- See also Asana Categories: Forward Bends
Navigating to What You Need
Asana Digests are precisely organized so that you can quickly pinpoint what you need in the moment.
Please navigate using the quick menu above.
More Tools & Support
To view this page and thousands more, we invite you to join Yoga Teacher Central, serving teachers since 2012.
You'll get instant access to a massive, organized library of practical and time-tested lessons, plans, and support for yoga teachers and trainers.
The entire site is member-supported and ad-free.