intermediate

Four-Limbed Staff Pose

Chaturanga Dandasana

chah-tu-RAHNG-ah dahn-DAHS-uh-nuh

The 'Yogi's Push-up.' A powerful transition pose that builds immense upper body and core strength. It requires precise alignment to protect the shoulder joints while hovering inches from the earth.

Chakras
PrimaryManipura (Solar Plexus)
Gaze:Nose Tip
Quick Summary
  • Lower halfway down.

  • Keep elbows hugged into the ribs.

  • Stay parallel to the floor.

Foundation
  • Hands shoulder-width apart, fingers spread wide.

  • Shift forward onto the tiptoes before lowering.

Alignment
  • Lower until elbows reach a 90-degree angle.

  • Maintain a straight line from heels to crown; do not let the hips sag.

  • Draw the shoulders away from the ears.

Exhale as you lower with control.
arm-balancecore