intermediate

Half Boat Pose

Ardha Navasana

AHR-dah nah-VAHS-ah-nah

A foundational core-strengthening pose where the body balances on the sacrum, forming a shallow 'V' shape. It is a lower, more intense variation of Boat Pose that demands immense abdominal engagement and hip flexor strength.

Chakras
PrimaryManipura (Solar Plexus)
SecondaryMuladhara (Root)
Gaze:Toes
Quick Summary
  • From Boat Pose, lower your torso and legs until they are hovering just above the floor.

  • Keep your lower back (sacrum and lumbar) pressed firmly into the mat.

  • Reach your arms forward, keeping your gaze on your toes.

Foundation
  • The foundation is the sacrum and the lower back pressing into the floor.

  • Do not let the lower back arch or lift off the mat; this is non-negotiable for safety.

Alignment
  • Legs are straight, toes are active, hovering a few inches off the floor.

  • Shoulders and head are lifted, with the neck long and un-strained.

  • Interlace fingers behind the head if the neck feels weak.

Breathe into the sides of the ribs, maintaining a rigid abdominal brace.
seatedcore