The word "Garuda" means 'eagle' in Sanskrit. Garuda is an emblem of the sun and the solar cycle.
Sequence:
- Stand erect in Tadasana.
- Bend your legs at the knee.
- Lift your right foot off the ground.
- Balance your body on your left foot.
- Point the toes of your right foot towards the ground.
- Place your right foot around the calf of the left leg.
- Press the left foot on the ground.
- Stretch your arms in front and parallel to the ground.
- Cross your arms at the elbow, the left hand over the right.
- Bend your elbows so that the fingers are pointing towards the ceiling.
- The back of the hands should be pressed against each other.
- Twist your forearms further and try to bring both the palms facing each other.
- Place the fingers of the right hand in the palm of your left hand at the root of the thumb.
- Press the palms together as much as possible.
- Lift your elbows until they are level with your shoulders.
- Hold the pose and breathe normally for about 15-30 seconds.
- Repeat the same with your legs and hands in reverse positions.
Caution:
- People with a knee injury should avoid this yoga pose
Benefits:
- The hips, thighs and shoulders are stretched.
- The yoga pose helps improve the balance of your body.
- Ankles and knees are strengthened with regular practice of Garudasana.
