Forward bending is a passive process in which gravity is utilized to stretch the muscle.  while backward bends move the body away from the confines of gravity, forward bending Asanas use gravity to help release tension and pain.  It remains a process of introversion, counteracting the extroversion and dynamic opening up of bending backwards. Forward bending, associated with chest compression and exhalation, and induces relaxation.  Many people lead sedentary lifestyle with little or no exercise and as a result the body becomes stiff and unable to bend forward.  Forward bending is also associated with bowing and humility.   An inability to bend forward may indicate a stiff, proud or something bad with your personality.  Difficulty bending forward is also associated with fear. Human beings face forward to see the world.   Some people live in constant fear of attack from behind and the backs of their bodies unconsciously freeze, forward bending Asanas release this rigidity.

Forward bending Asanas loosen up the back, maintaining good health and increasing vitality. These practices move the spine into the position known as the primary curve.  During a forward bending asana each of the vertebra is separated, stimulating the nerves, improving Circulation around the spine and nourishing the spinal cord. This has a positive impact on the organs of the body generally on the brain specifically.  This group of Asanas is also very important for making the back muscles, supple and strong, compressing and massaging the abdominal organs, including the liver, kidneys, pancreas and intestines, and stretching the leg muscles and tendons.  Most forward bending Asanas start by bending from the hips and not the waist.  Ending from the hips gives greater flexibility of movement and creates a stronger pressure against the abdomen. Care must be taken not to force the back to bend further forward than present flexibility will allow; rather, the muscles should be relaxed, allowing gravity and exhalation to move the body.  With regular practice even the most rigid back will develop increased flexibility.

It is not necessary to practice all the forward bending Asanas one after another.  Start with the preliminary practices and gradually build up to the more advanced ones, as the back becomes more flexible.  People with any kind of back condition and those suffering from backache should consult a doctor before practicing these Asanas.  When practicing forward bending asanas from a sitting position, particularly those in which the legs are separated, it is helpful to sit with the perineum on the floor.  The correct position is obtained by sitting with the legs slightly separated and placing the hands on the floor, on either side of the hips, with the fingertips pointing forward.  Then using the arms and hands as supports, lift the buttocks slightly from the floor and while lowering them, try to tilt the pelvis forward.