intermediate

Extended Hand to Big Toe Pose

Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana

oo-TEE-tah hahs-tah pah-dang-goosh-TAHS-ah-nah

A challenging standing balance that demands focus, flexibility, and strength. It deeply stretches the hamstrings and inner thighs while building stability in the standing leg and core.

Chakras
PrimaryMuladhara (Root)
SecondaryManipura (Solar Plexus)Ajna (Third Eye)
Gaze:Nose Tip
Quick Summary
  • Balance on one leg, lift the other.

  • Grab your big toe with your hand.

  • Extend the lifted leg forward or to the side.

Foundation
  • Root firmly through the four corners of your standing foot.

  • Micro-bend your standing knee to avoid locking.

Alignment
  • Keep your hips level and square to the front (or side, depending on variation).

  • Lengthen through the crown of your head, maintaining a tall spine.

  • Engage your core to stabilize the pelvis.

Inhale to lengthen, exhale to extend the leg.
standing