Garudasana (Eagle Pose)

(gah-rue-DAHS-anna)

Garuda = the mythic "king of the birds," the vehicle of Vishnu. The word is usually rendered into English as "eagle," though according to one dictionary the name literally means "devourer," because Garuda was originally identified with the "all-consuming fire of the sun’s rays."

Benefits: Strength, flexibility, and endurance, and unwavering concentration. This is great for balance and opening the upper back.

Step by Step

1)Stand in Tadasana. Bend your knees slightly and cross your left leg over your right. Wrap your left foot around your right calf muscle.

2)Stretch your arms out in front of you. Put the left arm straight in front of you and cross the right arm underneath. Bend the elbows to a 90 degree angle and place the right fingers in the left palm so that they are facing each other.

3)Stretch your fingers toward the ceiling, relax the shoulders, keep the core strong and keep the lower ribs in.

Breath in the pose and allow the energy to move around your body. Stay strong but don't be rigid.