Reverse Warrior - Yoga Pose of the Month

Reverse Warrior
Sanskrit: Viparita Virabhadrasana
Photo of Maggie Anderson taken by Morayo Sayles

Reverse Warrior has amazing benefits. Such as, helps fatigue and lower back pain as well as strengthens the legs, abs and thighs, stretches the inner thighs, hips and groin, increases flexibility of the back and spine, clears the mind, reduces overall body weight and burns excess of calories. (The last two are my fav! teehee.) And it's great for releasing energy all the way up the body through and out the raised arm. Love it! :)

Directions on how to come into the pose:
Standing in Warrior II (legs wide and apart, hips open, bending left knee so knee is over ankle, think good posture and reach tall). Take the back (right) hand down and slide it down towards the ankle, resting on the back leg. As you take a side bend, reach up and over with left hand making a crescent shape or willow tree action. :) Maintain good foundation in the legs. Gaze forward or up towards sky. You are feeling this in the side waist and not the back per say. But you will receive mooch-o benefits in the spine! :) Hold and breathe. Five deep breaths here.

To come out, release the arms down to shoulder height back into Warrior II. Switch sides! Gotta have balance! :) Then release the arms down, straighten the back and legs. Heel toe your way back in to Mountain pose, palms together for Namaste. Close your eyes and breathe deeply.

When not to do this pose or to modify / Contraindications:
Serious injury in spine.

Bliss,
Maggie
CYT, RMT, CSC, CPLC
Empowering you through Yoga, Healing & Workshops
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