Learn The Half Forward Bend Pose | Ardha Uttanasana |Simple Yoga For Beginners |Mind Body Soulbr br In Sanskrit, Ardha Uttanasana means "intense half stretch pose." The pose certainly gives your hamstrings a great stretch, but it also encourages good spinal alignment. Forward bends also stimulate your abdominal organs and promote good digestion.br br This pose gives you a great opportunity to practice your yoga breathing, increase your focus, and calm your mind. It's also a great way to build up strength and flexibility you'll need for advanced yoga poses and sequences.