beginner

Reclined Pigeon / Eye of the Needle

Supta Kapotasana

SOOP-tah kah-poh-TAHS-ah-nah

A gentle and effective hip opener performed while lying on your back. It is a safer alternative to traditional Pigeon Pose for those with knee issues and is perfect for releasing tension in the outer hips.

Chakras
PrimarySvadhisthana (Sacral)
SecondaryMuladhara (Root)
Gaze:Upward / Sky
Quick Summary
  • Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat.

  • Cross one ankle over the opposite thigh, just above the knee.

  • Thread your hands through your legs and hug your bottom thigh toward your chest.

Foundation
  • Keep your head and shoulders flat on the floor.

  • Allow your back to feel heavy and grounded.

Alignment
  • Flex the foot of your crossed leg to protect your knee.

  • Gently press your crossed knee away from your chest as you pull the other thigh in.

  • Keep your lower back reaching toward the mat.

Inhale to feel the space in your hips|exhale to relax and deepen the stretch.
supinehip-openerrestorative