<strong>AKA Garudasana</strong> <strong>As we go through the process of full Eagle Pose - we have done the Eagle arms so now it's time to bring in the legs, but as a separate pose. Once we've done this, we can bring it all together to create the amazing focus and balance of what the full Eagle Pose is and what it represents. </strong> We want to work smarter, not harder, which is why the arms and legs - as two separate parts of the body - have different roles. Garuda is known as the king of the birds. This standing pose is also referred to as a balancing pose which works to strengthen the legs, whilst boosting energy within your body. With regular practice this pose can be included in yoga flow sequences. <strong>Benefits of Eagle Legs</strong> <ul> <li>Strengthens and stretches the ankles and calves.</li> <li>Stretches the thighs and hips.</li> <li>Improves concentration.</li> <li>Aids in good breathing practice.</li> <li>Improves sense of balance.</li> </ul> <strong>How to get there:</strong> <ul> <li>Begin in the Mountain Pose – <a href="https://womenlove.health/health/tadasana-yoga-pose/">see here - Tadasana </a></li> <li>Keep your feet at hip distance apart.</li> <li>Knees are slightly bent.</li> <li>Core is engaged – belly button to spine.</li> <li>Bend your knees and sink your bottom to<a href="https://womenlove.health/wellness/yoga/chair-pose/"> Chair Pose </a></li> <li>Bring the weight into your left foot and look forward to a focus on something – Drishti point.</li> <li>Keep your hands on your hips.</li> <li>Lift your right leg and cross it over your left thigh as high up as you can.</li> <li>Squeeze your thighs together.</li> <li>Hook the top of your right foot behind your left calf.</li> <li>Keep your spine straight.</li> </ul> <strong>Deep breaths here for 20 seconds</strong> <strong>To exit the pose:</strong> <ul> <li>Engage your core – belly button to spine.</li> <li>Press down through your left foot and activate your thigh.</li> <li>Uncross your leg.</li> <li>Standing tall.</li> </ul> While standing in Tadasana for a minute, notice both sides of your body before repeating this on the other side. <strong>Contraindications</strong> Pre-existing ankle, knee or lower back injury. <strong>Variations</strong> Cross one foot over the other, have the crossed over foot either flat or ball of foot on the floor. Hold onto a chair for stability. Press your bottom against a wall for stability, refining the pose. Enjoy practicing Eagle Legs. If you're wobbly with your balance, that’s OK - have a giggle! Always be kind to yourself, move with ease and grace. You are the most important person in your life. <strong>Namaste</strong> <strong>For more from The Carousel on yoga - including Eagle Arms - <a href="https://womenlove.health/wellness/yoga/yoga-pose-of-the-week-eagle-arms-pose/">visit here.</a></strong> https://womenlove.health/wellness/yoga/yoga-pose-of-the-week-eagle-arms-pose/
