Yoga Pose: Eagle

Here’s a pose that looks super complicated but makes sense if you break it down. It’s called eagle or Garudasana though I’ve never actually heard my teachers use anything but the English name. According to YogaJournal.com it translates more literally into “devourer.” That sounds more awesome so go with that name if it helps.

To get your arms into that funky awesome pretzel, make an X with your arms out in front of you, right under left and meeting at the elbows. Palms should be facing out. Now bend your elbows and bring your hands toward your body rotating them so that the palms are pressed together.

Once your arms are set, bend your knees and lift your right leg over the left and hook the right foot around the back of the left calf/ankle.

Now sit up straight, keep your arms engages, square your hips and balance.

To switch to the left side just have your left arm on the bottom of the arm X and lift your left leg over right.

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