SeatedBeginner

Seated Prayer Bow

Yoga practitioner bowing forward in prayer.
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About This Pose

Seated Prayer Bow combines the reverent gesture of prayer hands with a gentle forward fold. This meditative posture calms the mind while stretching the back body and encouraging introspection. The prayer position brings focus inward, making this pose ideal for beginning or ending a practice with intention.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Sit comfortably with spine tall

  2. 2

    Bring palms together at your heart center

  3. 3

    Press palms firmly together and lift through elbows

  4. 4

    Inhale and lengthen the spine

  5. 5

    Exhale and bow forward, leading with the heart

  6. 6

    Let your forehead move toward your thumbs or the floor

  7. 7

    Hold for 5-8 breaths, then rise slowly

Alignment Cues

  • Keep palms pressing evenly together
  • Bow from the hips, not just the upper back
  • Relax the shoulders as you fold
  • Breathe deeply and slowly

Benefits

  • Calms the mind and encourages introspection
  • Gently stretches the spine and back body
  • Creates a meditative, centered feeling
  • Perfect for setting intentions or gratitude
  • Combines physical and spiritual practice

Modifications

  • Support head

Variations

  • Hands on thighs

Cautions & Contraindications

Cautions

  • Avoid neck strain

Avoid this pose if you have:

  • Knee pain

Use This Pose

Quick Facts

Primary Focus

full body

Secondary Focus

spine

Suggested Hold

30 seconds

Tags

seatedmeditationbow

Equipment

yoga mat