What is Circle Pose?

Circle pose, or mandalasana in Sanskrit, is an advanced pose that requires a great deal of strength and flexibility. With the arms and head in a headstand position, the practitioner circles his legs both clockwise and counterclockwise. In order to be able to practice this pose, ease in upward facing bow/wheel pose is a must.

Instructions

• Begin in headstand.
• Exhale and lower the legs to the floor so that the belly is arched toward the sky.
• Walk the legs clockwise/to the right. At about the 3 o'clock position, lift the left leg over the right, flipping the body so that the belly is toward the floor.
• Continue to walk the feet around the body in a clockwise position.
• Again, at about the 9 o'clock position, lift the right leg over the left, flipping the body so that the belly is again toward the sky. Walk the feet back to the starting position.
• Pause and take several breaths before repeating in a counterclockwise position.

Cautions

• Do not practice this pose if there is back or neck injury, high blood pressure, heart problems, or any contraindicated conditions for inversions.

Benefits of Circle Pose

• Invigorates the entire body.
• Massages the abdomen and internal organs.
• Energizes and opens the chest and lungs.
• Opens the hips.
• Elongates the sides and front of the body.
• Promotes a healthy spine and bones.