intermediate

Standing Splits

Urdhva Prasarita Eka Padasana

OORD-vah prah-sah-REE-tah EY-kah pah-DAHS-ah-nah

A powerful balance and deep stretch that targets the hamstrings and improves balance. It challenges your focus while building strength in the standing leg.

Chakras
PrimaryMuladhara (Root)
SecondarySvadhisthana (Sacral)
Gaze:Toes
Quick Summary
  • From a standing forward fold, lift one leg as high as you can toward the sky.

  • Keep your torso folding over your standing leg.

  • Keep your hands on the floor or blocks for balance.

Foundation
  • Ground down firmly through your standing foot.

  • Keep your standing leg straight but don't lock the knee.

Alignment
  • Relax your head and neck toward your standing leg.

  • Reach through the toes or heel of your lifted leg to keep it active.

  • Try to keep your hips square, or open them slightly if you want more height.

Exhale to fold deeper|inhale to reach the lifted leg higher.
standingforward-bend