In yoga, the forward bend is an extremely relaxing pose, because you stretch your back and legs. These step-by-step instructions demonstrate the forward bend. From here, you want to pick up a book, rent a video, or take a class to obtain guidance on how long to hold these poses, how often to repeat them, and how to combine them with other poses.
Start in a sitting position, with your legs out in front of you in a V, toes pointed up toward the ceiling.
Use whatever width of V is comfortable for you. Pull up on your butt so that you are resting on your pelvic bone.
Stretch your arms straight up and inhale.
![Stretch your arms straight up and inhale.](https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/101405.image0.jpg)
Try to lengthen your spine as you stretch.
As you exhale, lean your chest forward.
![As you exhale, lean your chest forward.](https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/101407.image2.jpg)
Keep your back straight as you lean forward.
Try to bring your chin to your shins and your chest to your thighs.
![Try to bring your chin to your shins and your chest to your thighs.](https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/101409.image4.jpg)
Ease into the stretch and go as far as you comfortably can.