Garudasana: The eagle pose

NT Features

Garudasana is an asymmetric position in which one leg, say the right, is crossed over the left, while the arm on the opposite side, say the left, is crossed over the right, and the palms are pressed together. Like all poses on one leg, it demands, and may help to build, balance and concentration.

Eagle arms consist of crossing the arms twice at the elbows and the wrists and eventually interlacing your fingers or pressing your palms together. Practicing eagle arms opens up the upper back, deltoids, and shoulders and can be very intense, and even difficult for some yogis.

Before moving into Eagle Pose, you’ll want to warm up with some preparation poses; these can include Cat/Cow, Mountain Pose, Chair Pose and Eagle Arms.

Benefi ts of Eagle Pose

• This pose strengthens the calves and ankles and helps stretch shoulder, hip, thigh, calf, ankle, and upper back.
• Stretches hips deeply. Eagle pose is a deep hip opener.
• Promotes deep breathing. Wrapping your arms in front of you helps open the back of the lungs, increasing the ability to breathe deeply.
• Increases focus and balance.
• Helps open the shoulders.