Yoga Challenge of the Week: Garuda Asana

The origin of this pose lies in ancient mythology. Garuda was born with the body of a man and the head, wings, and claws of an eagle and was later granted immortality.

The pose for this week is tricky because the level of coordination, twisting, and balance required. It can be integrated as part of the Standing Series as a great way to improve balance using both arms and legs.

Benefits:

• Strengthens ankles

• relieves cramps in the calves

DO: look ahead

DON'T: twist loosely

Directions:

• Stand straight, hands by your side, looking ahead. This is Tadasana

• Bend your knees. Place left leg over right leg and twist it around.

• Bend your arms. Place one arm over the other, and twist them around each other. This is Garudasana.

• Return to Tadasana. Switch positions, coiling the opposite leg and opposite arm.

• End at Tadasana