Eagle Pose
What is Eagle Pose:
Eagle Pose builds focus and balance, both mentally and physically. It’s a standing pose that engages your whole body.
Basics of Eagle Pose
Targets:
- Shoulders
- Upper back
- Glutes
- Core
- Thighs
- Hips
- Calves
Level:
Beginner
Sanskrit Name:
Garudasana
Benefits of Eagle Pose:
- Stretches shoulders and back
- Stretches hips
- Improves focus
- Improves balance
- Stretches and strengthens thighs, quads, and calves
- Stretches IT band
- Tones arms, legs, and core
How to do Eagle Pose
- Start in a standing pose with your feet slightly parted.
- Bend your knees then wrap your right leg over your left, tuck your toe behind your calf.
- Keep your spine straight by lifting the crown of your head towards the sky.
- Bring your arms in front of your face with your elbows bent then bring your right arm under your left.
- Bring your elbows up in line with your shoulders and bring your elbows away from your body.
- Lower your hips
- Switch sides
Common Mistakes
- Not breathing
- Rounding your spine
- Lifting your shoulders
- Dropping your chest
Beginners’ Tips
- Don’t tuck your toe if it feels too hard or your body is straining, just cross your leg
- If you cant twist your arms around, just press your palms together
Cautions
- Pregnancy
- High or low blood pressure
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Knee injuries
- Shoulder injuries
Variations
- Eagle’s Nest
- Eagle arms with a kickstand leg
- Seated eagle with a chair
- Eagle pose with a squat
