Utthita Hasta Padangushtasana "Extended Hand to Big Toe Pose"

Pronunciation: (OOT-hee-tah hah-stah -pahd-ahng-goosh-TAHS-ana)

Also called:

Utthita Hasta Padangushtasana B (leg and arm out to the side) Utthita Hasta Padangushtasana A (leg and arm in front of you)

Level:

Intermediate

Chakra:

Benefits: This one-legged balancing pose will strengthen your core, stretch your hamstrings, and open your hips.  

How it's done:

• From a standing position, lift a foot and grab the toes with fingers from hands on the same side. 
• Your other hand should be on your hip to help keep hip pointed forwards. 
• Extend your leg out to the side (version 2/B), or to the front (version 1/A)
• When balanced, extend your other arm
• Gaze should be forward, or towards the side opposite the extended leg to help with balance
• To release, bend the knee before lowering leg to the floor
• Use a strap if needed to help extend the leg