Eagle Yoga Pose

Garudasana

Eagle Yoga Pose
overview

Eagle Yoga Pose is a standing pose that targets the shoulders and is ideal for yogis and yoginis at an intermediate level.

ajna – the third eye chakra
related poses

[yoga-sharrre]

[yoga-tags]

How To Do Eagle Yoga Pose
  1. Begin by entering the Mountain Pose (Tadasana), with back straight, feet together and arms loose at your sides. Bend your right leg, lift your foot, cross your right thigh over your left and hook your foot behind your left calf with the toes pointing down.
  2. Bring your arms out in front of you and then cross them so that your left arm over your right. Bend your elbows so that your left elbow fits into the crook of our right one. Raise your arms until they are perpendicular to the floor.
  3. Move your hands in such a way that your palms touch. Lift your elbows and stretch your fingers towards the sky.
  4. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds. Switch legs and arms and repeat all steps.
Notes
  • Breathe deeply through each step.
  • Avoid this pose if you have a history of knee injuries.
Tips

If you’re having trouble balancing, perform this pose near a wall and brace your backside against it.
If you cannot bring your palms together, use a yoga strap.

Stretches & Strengthens

All Muscles: Shoulders, hips, quads, upper back, calves, ankles

Target Muscles: Calves, quads, shoulders

Health Benefits of Eagle Yoga Pose
  • Improves balance.

Sanskrit Name & Meaning

Sanskrit Name & Meaning

Garudasana

(gah-rue-DAHS-anna)

garuda: eagle; shaped like the bird Garuda

asana: posture

History & Mythology

History & Mythology

In Hindu mythology, Garuda was considered the king of birds. He is also the mount of the god Vishnu, who in return grants the bird king immortality. His image is frequently used as a symbol of speed and war, and many warriors use his image as a seal. He is depicted as a giant golden mix between human and bird. In Buddhist mythology, the Garuda are actually a race of giant intelligent birds. Garudas are enormous and their wingspans can be many miles long. They also have the ability to change their size — they can grow so small they disappear.
Research into the history and mythology of yoga poses is a daily commitment. If you have any information that may help us out, we’d love to hear from you.