The Sanskrit word Garuda means eagle, hence the name of this posture. According to Hindu mythology Garuda is the king of birds, he transports Lord Vishnu and is said to be eager to help humanity in its fight against daemons. The goal of the Eagle pose (Garudasana) is to compress everything together and keep it in one line – shoulders, hips, knees and ankles.
This pose is intended to keep the practitioner alert, and help the mind to focus on one’s direction in life. Technique of Eagle pose - Start by standing with your feet slightly apart and the arms by your sides.
- Pull the left foot upwards bending your knee.
Then wrap your left foot around the right leg and rest the back of your left thigh on your right thigh. - Gently cross your arms at the elbows, right over the left.
- Join your palms together keeping your fingers pointed upwards.
- Keep breathing and hold the pose for a while.
- Exhale and return to the Tadasana, then repeat the pose on the opposite side.
- Hold the pose for as long as you are comfortable. 15 – 20 seconds is okay for early attempts; gradually increase the time span as you feel more comfortable. Repeat 3 – 4 times on each side.
Benefits of Eagle pose The Eagle pose (Garudasana) strengthens your legs, knees and ankles. It stretches and tones muscles of your leg and can helps relieve leg cramps. The Eagle pose (Garudasana) is specially intended to stretch and tone the muscles of your legs that grow weak from a sedentary lifestyle. It strengthens your ankles, your knees and your legs, loosening the joints of your arms and legs. It gets rid of stiffness in the shoulders and relieves neck tension. Practised diligently, over time, the Eagle posture enhances powers of concentration, your sense of balance and grace of your body. While the Eagle pose (Garudasana) is known to bring so many important benefits to a practitioner, there are certain health conditions in which this pose should not be done. 2 good reasons not to do the Eagle pose (Garudasana) are: - Knee injuries of any sort.
- Injured hip – stop this pose until healed then consult with your medical practitioner.
Note: In case of arm injuries, feel free to keep your hands in a prayer pose; this is done to avoid straining the shoulders and arms.
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