Paschimottanasana is a fundamental hatha yoga asana that provides several health benefits. This asana is good for various physiological systems, including high blood pressure and diabetes, and even helps with sciatica. In addition, paschimottanasana benefits the entire body and provides a great stretch.

Instead, elevate the seat with folded blankets or some other support under the sitz bones so that gravity can draw the upper body forward. Bending the knees can also allow the spine to come forward more easily. The hamstrings still lengthen, but in a less stressful way.