2. Astavakrasana (Eight-Angle Pose)
This is the eight angle pose. Start by sitting on the mat with your legs stretched out in front
of you. Place your hands on the mat beside the hips with your palms facing down on the
mat and move your shoulder blades down closer to the chest. Bend the right knee and
place it on the upper right arm, using your right hand. Your left leg is stretched out on the
floor. Now draw the left heel towards the groin as you lock the left foot with the right. Inhale
and press your palms into the floor. As you straighten the arms your body will lift off the
floor. While breathing easily straighten the legs with the feet still locked. The legs will be
pointing to the right. Your arms are bent like in the staff pose. Breathe easily for about thirty
seconds and then slowly move out of the pose.
3. Astavakrasana (Eight-Angle Pose)
Precaution: Should not be attempted
until the arms and shoulders have
become very strong. People with heart
ailments, high blood pressure, back
conditions or problems in the hips.
Benefits: Strengthens the wrists and
arms and also develops the muscles of
the abdomen. It strengthens the wrists,
the arm and leg muscles, and the
muscles of the abdomen.