Extended Hand-to-Toe Pose
Sanskrit Name: Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana
Challenge Level: Hard
Extended hand-to-toe pose is an intermediate balancing pose that strengthens the legs, improves balance and focuses awareness. From mountain pose, one knee is brought toward the chest. The corresponding thumb and forefinger reach down to wrap around the big toe. The lifted leg extends forward as the toes stay flexed. On an inhale, the lifted leg opens out to the side while the other hand stays on the corresponding hip. The gaze is turned, looking away from the lifted foot. A beginner's variation of this pose is to keep the lifted knee bent and move the bent leg out to the side, with the hand either on the foot or on the top of the shin. Using a wall to maintain balance is also an option.
Categories
Standing Yoga Poses
Standing poses build strength and stability. The awareness is on physical and mental balance. To stand erect, the feet must be firmly planted on the ground, with the spine stretching upward and the head lifted. These foundation poses provide entry into standing on one leg.
Balancing Yoga Poses
The grounding of the feet, distribution of the body weight, learning to breathe soft and deep are all important aspects of building a strong foundation for a typical balance pose. These strengthen the stabilizer muscles thus helps your body to avoid falling and knocking things over. These can also help a lot in removing stress and anxiety.