Head-to-Knee Pose
Jānu Śīrṣāsana
जानु शीर्षासन
It is a seated pose where one leg is extended and the other knee is bent, with the head drawing towards the extended knee in a forward fold.
Jānu Śīrṣāsana is comprised of "Jānu" (knee), "Śīrṣa" (head), and "Āsana" (posture/pose). It is a seated pose where one leg is extended and the other knee is bent, with the head drawing towards the extended knee in a forward fold.
This pose enhances flexibility in the hamstrings of the extended leg and the hip joint of the bent leg. It is believed to stimulate the digestive system and support kidney and liver function, while also cultivating mental calmness and concentration.
One leg is extended straight, and the other knee is bent, with the sole of the foot placed against the inner thigh or heel drawn close to the perineum. The body folds forward from the hip joints towards the extended leg; hands grasp the foot or extend along the floor. Draw the abdomen towards the thigh, keeping the spine long as the head draws towards the knee.
Emphasize "lifting the kneecap of the extended leg and pointing toes towards the ceiling" along with "folding from the hip joint," to avoid forcing the forward bend and to promote hamstring stretch. If the back tends to round, suggest placing a blanket under the sitting bones.
