Purvottanasana is a unique technique in yoga exercises; this technique is also known as the inclined plank. Purvottanasana is derived from two Sanskrit words, purva and purvotta, purva means the front of the human body, and purvotta means the intense pressure or stretch.

So collectively Purvottanasana means the intense stretch of front part of the body, it produces energy pathway from hands and toes to all parts of the human body. This technique is opposite to Paschimottanasana, which is the forward bend of body. Purvottanasana is the back bend of body, which is very useful to strengthen our body posture. This technique is practiced by almost all students of yoga, to get better posture.

The basic technique of Purvottanasana is to, sit straight on the floor, shoulders must be straight and legs should be parallel and apart from each other according to hips distance. Put your hands on both sides, such that your palms touching the floor and arms must be straight. Now gently bend your knee, so that your feet will touch the ground. Now gently move your hips and chest in the upward direction, by putting weight on your feet and straightening elbows, in this position your shoulders must be pressed down, and you will inhale air. In this posture your head should be resting at the back and your neck is in extended position. Whole posture must be straight and parallel to hips. Now to come back in the original position, exhale and put off body weight from feet and hands. Now you are in original position, sit and relax for a while. Do these exercises 5 to 8 times or until you reach your break point.