Q&A: I can barely even touch my knees, let alone my ankles. Is Yoga really okay for someone like me?

Yes! Probably more you than perhaps others! Flexibility is SUPER important and it worries me that you can barely touch your knees. That is usually a sign of super tight hamstrings and a very rigid back which probably goes with some lower back or shoulder/neck pain as well as knees. Start slowly. On all forward bends, put a few blankets underneath your tailbones to tilt the pelvis forward and keep the back straight. ALWAYS bend from the hips. Keep the back STRAIGHT. Use a cord placed in the arches of your feet to help bend forward. You might also try some Yin Yoga to speed up your flexibility.

Paschimottanasana

Paschimottanasana

You either love or hate this pose, depending on your flexibility. However, no matter what your level of flexibility is, this posture is useful for bladder control, diabetes and the removal of excess fat. Read here to learn more about the benefits of Paschimottanasana.

To begin, sit up straight with your back straight and pelvis tilted forward. If you can’t sit straight with your legs in front of you (this is common if you have tight hamstrings), use a blanket or pillow to tilt your hips foward and straighten your back.

Lift your arms and hands above your head and slowly bend forward from the hips, not the back. Depending on your flexibility, you may not go very far. That is okay. Let your hands rest next to your hips, on your thighs or knees. Wherever your limit is. If you desire you can also use a rope or belt situated in the arches of your feet to pull yourself forward more. Just keep your elbows out and your back straight as your bend forward.

However, if you are able, first try and bring your fingers to your toes, than the arches of your feet. If you feel comfortable there, turn your palms out and grab your wrist.

No matter where you end up in the posture, be sure to breathe as the breath itself acts a force that stretches the muscles in your abdomen and back. Close your eyes and see where you feel the pressure increase and decrease as you breathe in and out.