Uttanasana

Uttanasana, Intense Forward-Bending Pose, Intense Stretch Pose, Standing Forward Bend, Standing Forward Fold Pose, or Standing Head to Knees Pose is an asana.

Strengthens: Knee, Thigh
Stretches: Hip, Hamstring, Calf
Preparatory poses: Adho mukha śvānāsana, Paschimottanasana, Janusirsasana, Supta Padangusthasana
Pose type: Forward bend
Also known as: Standing head to knees pose

The asana consists of standing with feet together, then hinging forward from the hips, letting the head hang, with palms placed flat on the floor near the feet.

It forms part of the Surya Namaskar (sun Salutation) sequences.

Uttanasana is considered an important posture because, in addition to the physical stretching and strengthening benefits, it is believed to be balancing for the body. This is due to the combined elements of activity and passivity in the body once it is folded into the pose. Like all forward bends, uttanasana is believed to be calming for the mind. It is a posture of surrender and, as such, may teach one patience and acceptance.