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.
No image available
How to Perform
- 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
Hook the right foot high on the back of the left upper arm and bend elbows toward Chaturanga.
- 3
Lean weight into the hands, lift the left heel, and clamp the shin around both upper arms.
- 4
Exhale to float the left foot off the floor, keeping shins crossed and hips level as the body shifts forward.
- 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
BlocksBlanket