Eagle Pose

Eagle Pose, or Garudasana in Sanskrit, is a standing balance pose that requires concentration, strength, and flexibility. Named after Garuda, the mythical eagle king, it teaches us to find steadiness in complexity.

How to Perform

1. Start in Mountain Pose: Stand tall with your feet together and arms at your sides.
2. Bend Your Knees: Sink into a slight squat. Shift your weight onto your left foot.
3. Cross Your Right Leg: Lift your right foot and cross your right thigh over your left thigh. If possible, hook your right foot behind your left calf. If this isn't accessible, rest your right toes on the floor beside your left foot.
4. Wrap Your Arms: Extend your arms forward. Cross your left arm over your right at the elbows. Bend your elbows and try to press your palms together (or the backs of your hands).
5. Lift Your Elbows: Raise your elbows to shoulder height while keeping your shoulders drawn down away from your ears. Feel the stretch across your upper back and between your shoulder blades.
6. Sink and Squeeze: Bend your standing knee a little deeper. Squeeze your thighs together and feel the compression through your body.
7. Find Your Gaze: Fix your eyes on a single point (Drishti) to maintain balance.
8. Hold for 5-8 breaths, then unwind and repeat on the other side.

Benefits

• Strengthens the calves, ankles, and thighs
• Stretches the shoulders, upper back, and hips
• Improves balance and concentration
• Opens space between the shoulder blades
• Helps relieve sciatica and rheumatism

As we close out the year, Eagle Pose reminds us to draw inward, focus our energy, and prepare for the expansion that comes next.

Namaste,
Andrea Borghi
Green Yoga Inc