Astavakrasana is an arm balance sure to teach patience and offer challenge!
Most yoga students find arm balances to be difficult postures to conquer within their practice. Astavakrasana is no exception, the posture requires both flexibility and strength in the legs and hips. One could describe this posture as an arm balance with a little twist in the hips.
There are a variety of postures that can be beneficial in helping to prep for Astavakrasana. Some of these poses include, Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog), Navasana (Boat Pose), Eka Hasta Bhujasana (One Hand Arm Pose), and also Marichyasana (Marichi's Pose) which can help with flexibility in the legs and hips.
As the story is told, this pose is dedicated to the Sage Astavakra. It is said that while in the womb, the Sage laughed at his father. The father then cursed the Sage and the Sage was born crooked in eight places, therefore earning him the name Astavakra or Eight Crooks. Later, the father blessed the Sage and the deformity was removed.
As with most arm balances it is best to approach this posture with a playful and patient attitude. Be prepared to face the challenge and understand that it’s likely to take time to master.
Astavakrasana Pose offers a variety of benefits, some of which are listed below. Enjoy the pose!
Astavakrasana Pose Benefits:
Tones The Spine
Helps With Digestion
Strengtens Wrists & Arms
Tones Abdomen & Shoulders
Helps To Improve Balance
Read More About Astavakrasana Pose Practicing Astavakrasana Pose
The above Astavakrasana Pose is displayed by Yoga|Merge Instructor Drinie Aguilar. You can catch Drinie’s Classes on Yoga|Merge – Let’s Make Some Yoga