advanced

Two Feet Behind the Head Pose

Dwipada Sirsasana

dwee-PAH-dah sheer-SHAH-sah-nah

An extraordinarily advanced hip opener where both feet are brought behind the head, typically followed by a forward fold or internal bind. It demands extreme flexibility and body awareness, leading to profound introspection and release.

Chakras
PrimarySvadhisthana (Sacral)
SecondaryMuladhara (Root)Ajna (Third Eye)
Gaze:Nose Tip
Quick Summary
  • From a seated position, bring both feet behind your head.

  • Cross ankles, or let legs rest comfortably behind head.

  • Keep the spine long, or fold forward if accessible.

Foundation
  • Requires profound hip external rotation; ensure hips are already extremely open.

  • Protect the knees and ankles by ensuring no pain or strain as legs come behind the head.

Alignment
  • Use your hands to gently guide the feet behind the head, resting the ankles/shins on the back of the neck/upper shoulders.

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

  • Allow the body to settle into the deep compression, releasing tension.

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