Sage Kaundinya's Pose

Eka Pada Koundinyasana (Sage Kaundinya's Pose) is a pose dedicated to Sage Koundinya. Since this is a rather complicated and difficult yoga posture that requires a strong upper body, so it is advisable to be patient and take it slowly to make it correct. Eka Pada Koundinyasana is an arm balance posture that puts in harmony both mind and body.

How to do it (step-by-step)

1. Kneel holding your legs together. Turn your torso to the right so that you can place both palms on the ground.

2. Slowly begin to transfer your weight onto your arms while moving your head down toward the ground. Take the Side Crow Pose (Parsva Bakasana).

3. Bend your elbows and lift your torso. Reach your chest toward the front so your weight will be moved forward and your legs should become light.

4. Straighten the right leg so that the knee or upper leg rests above the left elbow.

5. Stretch your right leg back, keep it straight and maintain balance.

6. Focus on breathing, hold the position for a few seconds, and then repeat it on the other side.

Benefits

Physical benefits from Eka Pada Koundinyasana: massages abdominal organs; strengthens and rejuvenates the spine; strengthens, expands and rejuvenates the spinal cord; builds a strong core, shoulders, and legs; tones the stomach;

Mental benefits from Eka Pada Koundinyasana: soothes the mind; increases general body awareness and control; improves mental focus.

You should avoid this pose if you have: blood pressure; hip, wrist, or shoulder injuries; back pain; menstruation; if you are pregnant.

Regular practice of this pose affects Svadisthana (Sacral) Chakra and Manipura (Solar Plexus) Chakra.