Last updated: December 21, 2023
What Does
Ragdoll Pose Mean?
Ragdoll pose is a basic standing forward bend yoga posture that stretches the lower back.
Begin with the feet hip-width apart and the knees flexed. Bend forward from the hips, allowing the head to hang down between the upper arms. Cross the arms and softly grasp each elbow with the opposite hand. To release the back, gently sway from side to side.
Ragdoll pose is considered a simple variation of standing forward bend, which is known by the Sanskrit name uttanasana.
Yogapedia Explains Ragdoll Pose
In addition to stretching the spine, ragdoll pose:
- Releases tension in the lower back
- Relaxes muscles in the neck and shoulders
- Relieves stress and calms the mind
- Lengthens the spine
- Helps to drain the sinuses
- May ease lower back and neck pain
- Improves digestion
Although ragdoll pose is typically practiced with the knees slightly bent, it can be performed with straight legs to stretch the hamstrings and calves. Yogis suffering from back or neck pain or injuries should skip ragdoll pose.
During These Times of Stress and Uncertainty Your Doshas May Be Unbalanced.
To help you bring attention to your doshas and to identify what your predominant dosha is, we created the following quiz.
Try not to stress over every question, but simply answer based off your intuition. After all, you know yourself better than anyone else.