Virabhadrasana is a sequence of poses, that commemorates the exploits of a brave warrior named Virabhadra. Virabhadrasana in English roughly translates to Warrior Pose (Virabhadra = brave warrior + aasana = pose). This series of aasanas is a sequence of stretches, which requires you to hold in 3 stances; this post will shed light only on the first stance/ pose/ aasana. The Warrior 1 pose or the Virabhadrasana 1 mimics the arrival of Virabhadra, with swords in both hands, thrusting his way up through the earth from below.
How to do Virabhadrasana 1 or Warrior 1
- Inhale and Begin with Tadasana, standing tall.
- Stepping back with left leg and transfer the weight onto the right leg
- Turn the foot of the left leg out about 30 to 45 degrees, so that you do not feel wobbly maintaining your balance
- Ensuring that the hips are facing forward, bend the right knee.
- Inhale, raise the arms above the head in a namaste mudra.
- Lift the head to look up and gaze in between the hands.
- Hold for as long as you can, I usually hold for 3 to 4 breaths.
- Slowly lower the arms, straighten the right knee and step the left foot in to Tadasana.
- Repeat on the opposite side. Do a set of 4 to reap the benefits of this stretch
Cautions:
- Avoid this pose if you suffered chronic injury to the hips, knees, back or shoulders.
- Avoid lifting hands above your head if you are suffering from High Blood Pressure. Instead, bring your hands to the chest to make a namaste mudra.
Benefits of Warrior 1 or Virabhadrasana 1
- Stretches the front of your body, arms, legs, chest and core
- strengthens and stretches the thighs, calves and ankles
- opens the hips and chest
- Develops concentration & balance
Have you tried Virabhadrasana or Warrior 1 pose from Yoga – Basic series, that mimics the Mythical Warrior named Virabhadra? I’d love to hear your feedback, do comment here or you can reach me on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bloglovin |
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