What is Flying Pigeon Pose?

Flying pigeon pose, or eka pada galavasana in Sanskrit, is a challenging advanced balancing posture. The yogi balances on their hands with one leg in pigeon and the other leg extended back. It takes core and leg strength to keep the legs in this asymmetrical position.

Instructions

• Begin in chair pose. Cross the left ankle over the right thigh.
• Bend forward and bring the palms to the floor. Hook the left toes around the right upper arm and bend the arms deeply.
• Exhale and lean forward. Lift the right leg up and back. Keep pressing the left leg into the forearms to lift the torso and back leg up.
• Breathe while holding the pose.
• Exhale and lower. Change sides.

Cautions

• Avoid if there is hip, wrist or knee injury.

Benefits of Flying Pigeon Pose

• Strengthens the arms, shoulders and wrists
• Improves balance
• Tones the core muscles
• Opens the hips
• Stimulates digestion
• Builds confidence and balance