Eagle Pose

The eagle pose helps to relieve tension in the shoulders, upper back and arms. The entwining of the arms practiced in this movement helps the wrists become supple and strong. This pose is a boon for those who work at a desk or a computer.

Sit toward the front of a chair, balancing evenly on the buttocks with your spine erect and the feet placed hip width apart.

Bend your elbows and raise your arms to the level of the chest. Rest the right elbow on the front of the left upper arm above the elbow joint.

Then move the right hand back to the right and the left hand back to the left and join the palms. The left arm will now be entwined around the right arm.

Breathe evenly through the nose and relax your facial muscles as you lift your elbows and move your forearms away from you.

Hold for 30 seconds to a minute and repeat on the other side.

VAL LOH PHOTO
Robert Kay demonstrates the eagle pose.

Ray Madigan and Shelley Choy are certified Iyengar Yoga teachers and co-direct the Manoa Yoga Center at Manoa Marketplace. Visit www.manoayoga.com or call 382-3910. Manoa Yoga Center, the authors and the Star-Bulletin take no responsibility for any injury arising from the practice of these yoga postures. Readers should seek a doctor's approval before commencing this yoga practice.