Basic SittingIntermediate

Upward Rooster Pose

Urdhva Kukkutasana

Upward Rooster Pose presses the lotus-bound legs into the upper arms, lifting the body vertically so the knees hover near the chest.

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How to Perform

  1. 1

    Begin in Rooster Pose with arms threaded through Padmasana and palms grounded beside the hips.

  2. 2

    Lean forward, engage the core, and on an exhale press into the palms to lift the lotus off the floor.

  3. 3

    Straighten the elbows fully, drawing shoulders above wrists while the lotus knees hug the outer arms.

  4. 4

    Keep the spine tall, gaze forward, and breathe evenly as the torso stacks over the hands.

  5. 5

    Lower slowly with control, reset the wrists, and change the cross of the legs before repeating.

Benefits

  • Strengthens wrists, triceps, and upper back while refining balance.
  • Deepens hip and knee opening by maintaining lotus under load.
  • Energises abdominal organs through strong core engagement.

Alignment Cues

  • Elbows fully extend without locking
  • Chest stays broad while shoulders draw down
  • Lotus remains tight with heels close to navel
  • Breath stays steady and controlled

Common Mistakes

No common mistakes listed.

Contraindications

  • Knee or ankle sensitivity in lotus
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome

Recommended Props

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