Garudasana
The name comes from the Sanskrit words ‘garuda’ meaning eagle and ‘asana’ meaning posture. In Hindu mythology Garuda is known as the king of birds. He transports God Vishnu and helps humanity fight against demons.
Instructions: Stand erect. Gently bend your right knee, and wrap your left leg around your right, such that the knees are stacked over each other. Your left foot must touch your right shin. Raise your arms to the shoulder height and wrap your right hand around your left. Ensure that your elbows are bent at 90-degree angles and are also stacked. Slowly turn the hands so that the palms face each other. Balance the body well and lower the hips gently without leaning on either side. Hold the pose for a few seconds. Breathe deeply and slowly. Focus on the third eye (between the eyebrows on the forehead) and let go of your negative emotions. Release the pose, switch the limbs and repeat.
Benefits :
- It stretches and tones the hips, thighs, shoulders and upper back.
- It improves balance and strengthens the calves.
- It provides relief from sciatica and rheumatism.
- It increases the flexibility of the limbs.
Caution:
- Avoid practicing this pose if you have had a recent knee, ankle or elbow injury.
