The word yoga means to connect or unite. To connect with the self or divine self or your soul. There are eight different parts of yoga which include yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. When you perform all of these, it helps you to achieve enlightenment. Yoga asanas and pranayama can help to cure several health conditions and manage their symptoms. There are different yoga asanas and each of them has its own benefits. One of them is Garudasana. Also known as the Eagle Pose, this asana is known to have several health benefits. The name, Garudasana is derived from the Sanskrit words “Garuda” means “Eagle” and “asana” which means “posture”. But first, take a look at how to perform the pose correctly.

• Start by standing straight and slightly bending your knees. Then lift your left leg to cross it over the right leg and then balance your body.
• Then place your left thigh over your right thigh and your toes must point downwards. Keep a firm grip on the floor.
• Wrap the shin of your left leg around the calf of your right leg.
• Make sure to hook the top of the left foot in the lower right calf and keep the balance of your body entirely on the right leg.
• Bring your arms in front and keep them parallel to the floor. Place your palms facing in the upward direction.
• Next, wind your right arm over the left arm and bend your elbows; now, your forearms are perpendicular to the floor
• Keeping your spine straight and slowly twist your left arm under the right arm and rest your left hand’s fingers firmly on your right palm, so the palms face each other.
• Press the palms together and stretch the fingers upwards. These intertwined hands are placed in front of your chest, looking like a beak of an eagle.
• Gently unwind your arms and release your legs and relax.

Health Benefits Of Garudasana Improves Balance and CoordinationThis asana requires you to balance on one leg while intertwining your arms and legs. This helps to improve your balance and coordination. Strengthens Leg Muscles This pose requires you to stand on one leg and bend the knee of the standing leg. This action strengthens the quadriceps, hamstrings and calves, thereby, helping to tone the muscles and build endurance in the legs. Improves FlexibilityThe intertwined arms and legs in this pose helps to stretch the shoulders, upper back, thighs and hips. It improves overall flexibility and range of motion, especially in the joints and muscles involved in the pose. Improves Focus and ConcentrationBalancing in this pose requires your focus and concentration. Practicing Garudasana can help to improve your ability to concentrate. Improves Blood FlowThe pose helps to compress various parts of the body which includes the arms and legs. When released, it encourages fresh blood flow to these areas, thereby, helping in circulation and removing toxins from the body. Reduces Tension in the Shoulders and Upper BackThe arm positioning in this pose gives a deep stretch to the shoulders and upper back. This can help relieve tension and stiffness in these areas. Good for Your Hip Joints The leg cross and bend in Garudasana helps to engage and stretch the hip joints, thereby, improving its flexibility and stability. This can be beneficial for maintaining hip joint health and preventing issues related to hips.