In Sanskrit, “prasarita” means “open”, “stretched”, and “pada” means “foot”.
Prasarita padatanasana is consequently a position of forward flexion as well as a reversed pose.
The ligaments of the spine are stretched and elasticised. The spine regains soon its correct static and flexibility. The sympathetic ganglions placed next to the spine are stimulated.
The sciatic nerve is released through the practice of this pose, and consequently it eases sciatic pain.
CAUTION!
If the sciatic nerve is irritated, the practise of this asana is forbidden, and if it used to be in your daily programme of asanas, you should cease its practice immediately. The blood flow in the entire body is highly accelerated, especially in the head and trunk.
The blood stases in the abdominal organs are eliminated, the recycled blood is directed towards the heart and lungs, where it is purified.
The muscles of the feet develop harmonious shapes.