There’s undeniably something very special about the eagle because it is a bird that is either highly feared or much revered in many places.
In Hatha Yoga, we have the Eagle Pose, or Garudasana in Sanskrit (garuda = eagle, or “devourer,” a deity that’s said to be capable of blocking out the sun in the mythology of Hindus and Buddhists, asana = pose).
Qualities of the Eagle Pose
The Eagle Pose personifies a regal and dignified bearing. Observe an eagle and you will notice, that whether in the wild or in kept condition, its expression is unwavering in its solemnity and concentration.
In Hatha Yoga, the solemnity of the eagle is utilized to underscore the importance of keeping the arms, legs, knees, and feet harmoniously working together to reach new heights of concentration.
Seen from such a perspective, the Eagle Pose, when practiced regularly, improves balance and helps remove constrictions in the upper back.
Demonstration of the Eagle Pose
Benefits of the Eagle Pose
- Mental – because the pose can remove constrictions, it paves the way for a more relaxed frame of mind. In turn, having such a frame of mind is great to heighten levels of concentration, even after the yoga exercises are over.
- Physical – this pose can help correct posture through spine realignment. It also makes the legs, thighs, hips, ankles, and shoulders stronger. It is great therapy for the asthmatic, as well as for those with sciatica, and lumbago or lower back pain.
- Spiritual – through consistent practice of this pose, it is highly possible to increase your level of contentment because your mind is relaxed and your body’s aches, in particular those that are bunched up in your spine and lower back muscles, are lessened.
Safety Alert
This pose is not recommended for anyone with knee injuries.
Now that you’re ready to soar high with your fitness goals by practicing the “Eagle Pose”, be sure to subscribe to the MyFitnessNut.com Newsletter and pick up the other 69 to round out your yoga exercise routine. The next pose we’ll demonstrate is called the “Dancer Pose”, a silhouette of graceful strength.
