How to do Virabhadrasana 1 (Warrior 1 Pose)

Warrior 1 — Virabhadrasana 1 is a standing yoga pose named after a mythological Hindu warrior, Virabhadra. Virabhadrasana I stretches the whole front side of the body while strengthening the thighs, ankles, and back. This is a powerful standing pose that develops stamina, balance, and coordination. It tones the abdomen, ankles, and arches of the feet. In 'Yoga and You' we will see How to Do Warrior 1 Pose - Virabhadrasana 1.

How to:
1. Start by standing straight on the yoga mat, placing your hands on your hips.
2. Now, place both your legs apart as much as they would go and turn your left foot outwards such that the toes are pointing towards your left.
3. Turn your right foot slightly inwards. Now, raise both your hands and stretch them at your sides.
4. Twist your upper body towards the left and slowly raise your hands up towards the ceiling, joining them at the palms.
5. Slowly bend your left leg at the knee, making sure the knee is positioned directly above your foot.
6. Hold this posture for at least a few deep breaths.
7. Now, slowly raise your leg back up, until it’s completely stretched out.
8. Twist your body back to the front at you bring your arms to your sides.
9. Finally, bring your legs back together and relax.
10. Repeat the same with your other side as well.

Why to:
Stretches the chest and lungs, shoulders and neck, belly, and groins.
Strengthens the shoulders and arms, and the muscles of the back.
Strengthens and stretches the thighs, calves, and ankles.
It helps to stabilize and balance the body as it increases the stamina.
It is also a great asana for those with desk or sedentary jobs. It stimulates the metabolism as well as restores the spine.
It also helps release stress from the shoulders almost immediately and helps ease out frozen shoulders.
This asana relaxes the mind and the body, spreading the notion of peace, courage, grace, and a sense of auspiciousness.

Avoided by:
Patients with high blood pressure and heart problems should avoid practicing this pose. Practitioners with shoulder problems should keep their raised arms parallel (or slightly wider than parallel) to each other. And, practitioners with neck problems should keep their head in a neutral position and not look up at the hands.

Best time:
The best time to perform any yoga posture or preparatory poses is in the early morning hours. Yet, it is advised to perform yoga at least once a day, regardless of the time. However, make sure to practice yoga at least 3 hours after your meals.







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