Don't dive forward into this position too fast.  Everyone wants to look beautiful in the finished pose, so they rush to get into it.  Take the time to get yourself firmly grounded and set on your standing leg before you bring your body forward and down.  When you do begin to move, take your time and stay in control.  Let the power of the kick do the work.  If you are unable to bring your chest, abdomen and stomach down parallel to the floor, allow yourself to fall gently forward out of the posture.  Don't worry; your extended arm will stop your from hitting the floor if you momentarily lose control.

 

Only the Standing Bow moves all the blood from one side of the body to the other, then back again.  It uses the compression and extension, and then the release, that I described earlier-the Hoover Dam effect- systematically bringing fresh blood and oxygen to all the organs and glands.  It develops balance, increases the size and elasticity of the ribcage, firms the abdominal wall and upper thighs, tightens uppers arms, hip and buttocks and improves the flexibility and strength of the lower spine.  Mentally, Standing Bow builds patience, determination and concentration.