Identity card
Garudasana is the eagle pose. The legs are rolled up around each other, reproducing the talons of an eagle.
Garuda means eagle and Asana posture.
Garuda has several meanings. It refers to the Sanskrit word, meaning Eagle, and the name of the king of birds. In Hindu mythology, Garuda as the king of birds is the mount of the god Vishnu. He takes the form of a giant eagle with the face and wings of an eagle and the body of a human. He is known for his strength, speed and ability to fly beyond the heavens.
This is a balancing posture that is practiced standing on one leg.
From an Ayurvedic and doshas point of view, Garudasana helps to reduce the three doshas.
People with Vata dominance have to hold the posture for a long time to feel its full benefits. It brings them grounding and concentration.
The eagle posture brings physical and emotional balance to Pitta people.
Finally, it reduces the Kapha dosha if it’s not held for too long.
Benefits
On a physical level
Garudasana strengthens and stretches the ankles and calves. It stretches the thighs and hips. It stretches the upper body, especially the shoulders and upper back. Folding in on oneself, rolling up, stimulates the internal organs, stimulating digestion. Finally, the eagle posture prevents cramps by stimulating blood circulation.
On a mental level
Garudasana, like all balancing postures, allows us to anchor and refocus. It improves concentration, reducing stress. At the same time, it works on coordination.
Perform the posture step by step
Start in mountain pose. Place your hands on your hips. Lift your right knee towards your chest. From there, three options are available to you depending on your flexibility.
The first is to roll your right thigh around your left thigh. The second is to roll your right knee around your left knee. The third is to roll your right foot around your left leg.
Stretch your arms in a T shape. Bend your arms and bring them towards your chest. Place your right arm under your left arm. Here again, two options, depending on your flexibility.
First option : cross your arms only, the back of your right hand against the back of your left hand. Second option : cross your hands, palm facing each other.
Fix a point in front of you to find your balance.
Stay for a few breaths then do the same thing on the other side.
Alternatives
I have trouble holding the posture ?
You can perform the eagle pose by separating the arms from the legs. Roll only the legs while keeping the hands on the hips or in prayer. Then roll only the arms, keeping both feet on the ground.
You can use a block and place your foot on the block if you can’t roll my foot around the supporting leg.
I want to intensify the posture ?
I can bend the supporting leg more as in the chair pose.
I can bring the elbows closer to the knees by curling up on myself, trying to roll myself up like a ball.
Watch out for
It is not recommended to practice the eagle pose in case of injuries to the ankles, knees or wrists. Always consult and seek the advice of your doctor in case of health problems.
In all cases, it is strongly recommended to be accompanied by a person qualified in yoga in order to adapt the postures to your situation.
Practice Garudasana to develop your concentration and extraordinary strength worthy of a giant eagle !
Comments