Every posture in the Bikram series is in preparation for this posture, Bow Pose. It’s a 365 degree angle backward bend, against gravity. It’s weightlifting using free weights; your body is the weight.
If you were to hold this posture in good form for an extended period of time, your body would start to talk to you and let you know which body parts need to open. Every human body is different. Some people might feel it in the knees, others the hips. Some might feel it in the back or shoulders. Your body is telling you a story about yourself every time you take class, so listen carefully!
To do a good bow, focus on your form. The teacher will tell you to keep a 6 inch gap between your knees and feet. Do your best to maintain this. When your knees go wide, then you start to avoid tight parts in the spine.
If you’re not grabbing both feet yet, no need to worry. All of the postures in the series are preparing you to be able to do this posture soon enough. Keep coming to class and trying your best. Watch as those old injuries and tight spots start to disappear, and are replaced with strong, flexible, and healthy tissues.
Happy Backbending!
