advanced

One Foot Behind the Head Pose A

Ekapada Sirsasana A

EH-kah-pah-dah sheer-SHAH-sah-nah A

An extremely advanced hip opener where one foot is brought behind the head. This pose demands profound hip flexibility and body awareness, encouraging deep introspection and a breaking of perceived physical limits.

Chakras
PrimarySvadhisthana (Sacral)
SecondaryMuladhara (Root)Ajna (Third Eye)
Gaze:Nose Tip
Quick Summary
  • Sit with one leg extended, bring one foot behind your head.

  • Keep the spine long, or fold forward over the extended leg.

  • Balance your weight, breathing smoothly.

Foundation
  • Requires profound hip external rotation; ensure hips are already very open before attempting.

  • Protect the knee and ankle by ensuring no pain or strain as the leg comes behind the head.

Alignment
  • Use your hands to gently guide the foot behind the head, placing the ankle/shin on the back of the neck.

  • Maintain a long spine, engaging the core to support the torso.

  • Keep the extended leg active and rooted.

Breathe deeply and smoothly, allowing the breath to facilitate release in the hips.
seatedhip-openerforward-bend