Basic SittingIntermediate

Flying Pigeon Pose

Galavasana

Flying Pigeon Pose balances half lotus on the upper arms while both legs lift, mimicking a pigeon soaring from the branches.

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How to Perform

  1. 1

    From Chair Pose bring the right ankle across the left thigh in figure four, bend deeply, and place palms shoulder-width ahead of you.

  2. 2

    Hook the right foot high on the back of the left upper arm and bend elbows toward Chaturanga.

  3. 3

    Lean weight into the hands, lift the left heel, and clamp the shin around both upper arms.

  4. 4

    Exhale to float the left foot off the floor, keeping shins crossed and hips level as the body shifts forward.

  5. 5

    Hold for 3–5 breaths, lower with control, and practise on the second side.

Benefits

  • Strengthens wrists, shoulders, and core while challenging hip external rotation.
  • Deepens stretch through glutes and outer hips in the half-lotus leg.
  • Improves balance, focus, and breath awareness in preparation for transitions.

Alignment Cues

  • Elbows hug the ribs as in Chaturanga
  • Shins stay parallel while hovering
  • Spine lengthens forward as shoulders broaden
  • Breath remains smooth and even

Common Mistakes

  • Collapsing shoulders
  • Holding breath
  • Insufficient core engagement
  • Dumping weight into wrists

Contraindications

  • Knee or ankle sensitivity in half lotus
  • Wrist strain

Recommended Props

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