Contortion Wiki

Also: Backpack, Urabhrasana

A standing backbend. Standing straight, raise arms and bend back at the waist, keeping the rest of the body as straight as possible. When facing the floor, grab the thighs just above the knee. Bend the knees to being the chest closer to the floor, leaning forward to keep balance. Bring the line of sight back to horizontal, looking through the knees.

The the hands may temporarily come into contact with the floor during the inital backbed for balance, Ideally the should not. The chest should not come in contact with the floor, intentionally staying suspended above it.

If the chest comes in contact with the floor, it is a cheststand.