beginner

Garland Pose / Yogi Squat

Malasana

mah-LAH-sah-nah

A deep functional squat that grounds the energy toward the earth while lengthening the lower back. It serves as a powerful release for the hips and a reclamation of our natural range of motion.

Chakras
PrimaryMuladhara (Root)
SecondarySvadhisthana (Sacral)
Gaze:Nose Tip
Quick Summary
  • Drop the sit bones toward the earth.

  • Press elbows into inner knees to broaden the chest.

  • Keep the spine tall and the crown reaching upward.

Foundation
  • Feet wider than hips, toes turned out slightly.

  • Distribute weight evenly across the four corners of the feet.

Alignment
  • Thumbs to heart center, using the leverage of the arms to open the knees.

  • Lift the chest away from the pelvis to avoid rounding the spine.

Exhale deeply as you descend into the squat|inhale to expand the ribs and lengthen the spine.
standinghip-opener