Asymmetric prone backbend

Half Bow

Ardha Dhanurasana अर्धधनुरासन

Débutant à intermédiaireEnv. a brief, comfortable hold per sidePrononciation : AR-dhuh dhun-oo-RAH-suh-nuh (approximate English cue)

Half Bow is a prone backbend variation in which one knee bends and the same-side hand may reach toward the foot. The grasp is optional; keep the lift small and use a strap only if a teacher has shown a comfortable setup.

Illustration au trait de Half Bow (Ardha Dhanurasana)
Nom sanskritArdha Dhanurasana
Type de pratiqueAsymmetric prone backbend
Niveau suggéréDébutant à intermédiaire
Pratiquez dans une amplitude confortableCe guide est informatif et ne constitue pas un avis médical personnalisé. Arrêtez en cas de douleur aiguë, d’engourdissement, d’étourdissement ou d’inconfort respiratoire.

What is Half Bow?

Ardha Dhanurasana is a one-sided variation from the prone Bow family. The name can refer to different shapes, so keep the range modest and follow the version taught by a qualified teacher.

How do you explore a low-range variation?

Lie face down on a padded surface with the forehead supported.

  1. Bend one knee only as far as comfortable, keeping the pelvis grounded.
  2. Rest the arm beside the body; reaching for the foot is optional.
  3. If a teacher has shown a suitable strap variation, use it without pulling the heel toward the body.
  4. Keep the neck neutral and breathe easily.
  5. Release the leg slowly and rest before changing sides.

How can you modify Half Bow?

Keep both legs down, practice a small single-leg bend, or use a folded blanket beneath the pelvis. Do not force the hand-to-foot grip.

When should you stop or modify?

Stop for sharp knee, shoulder, neck, or back pain, numbness, or breath restriction. This draft awaits qualified review.

Common question: Must I hold my foot?

No. A small bent-knee position without a grasp is a valid option.

Références et lectures complémentaires

Ces références fournissent un contexte général. Elles ne valident pas chaque indication de cette page et ne remplacent pas les conseils d’un enseignant qualifié.

  1. Yoga: Effectiveness and Safety National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). General context on yoga safety and adapting postures; not pose-specific instruction.