Garudasana: Benefits of Eagle pose

image: Jbrd Yoga

The Eagle Pose or Garudasana is one of the many asanas or poses that serve as yoga stretches in a yoga session. This poses takes the name of the majestic bird that it invokes and resembles, which is why some also refer to it as the yoga bird pose. The eagle has mythological connotations in ancient Indian culture or Hindu mythology. This pose requires endurance, flexibility, and strength. It strengthens and improves concentration significantly, and although these qualities ma hold true and be descriptive of almost all the yoga postures, they are somewhat specific for the yoga eagle pose. 

The Eagle Pose is not just beneficial for the dedicated yoga practitioner, but also for therapeutic purposes. While it is extremely useful and helps to strengthen and maintain health for most practitioners, it’s also great for those afflicted with certain ailments. This is on account of the vast benefits that this pose offers. The Eagle Pose at first thought appears to be complicated and unsuited for beginners, but regular practice is all that is needed to master it. To give you an idea of the scope of this pose, here are some of the benefits of the yoga Eagle Pose.

• First and foremost the Eagle Pose is a standing pose, which means that it does require some sense of balance, which may make it tough for beginners. This however is just a challenge that can be overcome with time, but to get started beginners can even use a wall for support. As with all yoga poses there are several variations that your instructor can formulate for you, depending on your health and physical abilities.


• That sense of balance that deters so many beginners is in fact developed and achieved through practice of this pose as it requires you to stand on one foot.


• Yoga stretches are another hallmark of yoga postures and the Eagle Pose is no exception. It helps to loosen the joints and stretch the muscles. This is extremely important for the improvement of fitness and flexibility.


• This pose is particularly beneficial for the ankles and calves, which are normally neglected, as it stretches and strengthens them.


• The thighs, hips, upper back, and shoulders also benefit greatly from the practice of this posture.


• The pose helps you relax and consequentially builds concentration, as you focus on your breathing while doing this posture.


• The Eagle Pose is also used as a therapeutic aid for asthma patients and those suffering from problems of the lower back.