Garudasana

Eagle pose

Benefits

• Works into twelve major joints of the body
• Good for central nervous system
• Facilitates lymphatic function, improving immune system
• Improves mobility of hip joint
• Improves balance
• Strengthens legs
• Good for varicose veins
                    

   

  		Stand with the feet together and the arms by your sides (see the tad-asana).
  		Draw the left foot upward bending the knee and wrap the left foot around your right leg as you rest the back of your left thigh on the right thigh.
  		Cross your arms at the elbows, left over right.
  		Join the palms of your hands together keeping the fingers pointed upward.
  		Inhale and hold the posture for the duration of the inhaled breath
  		Exhale and return to the tada-asana. Repeat the posture on the opposite side, wrapping the right leg over the left and the right arm over left.

  Durations/Repetitions:

  Hold the hala-asana for as long as you are comfortable. 20-30 seconds is fine for early attempts, increase the time gradually as you become more comfortable. You can also try holding the posture for as long as you can hold the inhaled breath. Repeat 2 or 3 times on each leg.