Half Happy Baby Pose
Ardha ananda balasana
What is Half Happy Baby Pose?
Half happy baby pose, or ardha ananda balasana in Sanskrit, is a beginner's hip opening pose and a variation on the full happy baby pose. Here, only one leg is raised; the outer arm holds the foot and the knee draws toward the floor. The pose is both relaxing and restorative.
Instructions
- Lie on the back.
- Inhale and raise the right leg up.
- Grasp the sole of the right foot with the right hand.
- Exhale, bend the knee and use the hand to draw the knee toward the armpit, while simultaneously pushing the foot back into the hand.
- Breathe while holding the pose. Change sides.
Cautions
- Bend the knee of the extended leg if needed.
Benefits of Half Happy Baby Pose
- Stretches the hips
- Opens the inner thighs and groin
- Stretches the outer thighs
- Lengthens the spine
- Eases lower back tension
- Stretches the chest and shoulders
- Relaxes the mind
Half Happy Baby Pose Details
- Sanskrit Name
- Ardha ananda balasana
- Pronunciation
- ar-dhah ah-NAHN-dah bah-LAH-sah-nah
- Pose Level
- Beginner
- Drishti
- Nasagre (Tip of the nose)
- Pose Type
- Hip Openers, Restorative
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