Easier is subjective. The alternative OP is suggesting is sitting on the toilet and reaching between your legs. Personally, I find it easier to stand up, bend over and reach from behind.

Nay. Reaching between your legs? I'd honestly never even thought that was an option.

You just lean to the side, while seated. Just try it once, and keep an open mind.

But that will put asymmetric stress on the toilet seat. As an engineer, wearing out one side of the seat more than the other bothers me.

Rotate your tires, as it were.