What is Double Big Toe Pose?

Double big toe pose, or ubhaya padangusthasana in Sanskrit, is a challenging seated posture. Similar to boat pose, here the yogi holds the big toes, lifting the legs even higher. The pose is excellent for strengthening the core.

Instructions

• Begin sitting with the knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
• Inhale and lift the legs, balancing on the sitz bones.
• Grasp the big toes with the first three fingers and extend the legs straight and upward, finding balance on the buttocks without rounding the spine.
• Breathe while holding the pose.
• Exhale and release.

Cautions

• Keep the legs bent if the spine is rounding when the legs are straight.

Benefits of Double Big Toe Pose

• Strengthens the core
• Stretches the spine, hamstrings, chest and shoulders
• Improves balance
• Improves mental focus