WARRIOR III POSE

Moving swiftly and precisely, Virabhadra takes his sword and cuts off Daksha’s head (Virabhadrasana III).

Warrior III is a difficult pose, requiring balance, concentration, and strength.

PHYSICAL BENEFITS

- Strengthens the legs, arms, back and core muscles - Builds up the small muscles of the feet and ankles - Improves focus & balance

TIPS

- Spread toes of the standing leg wide, distributing weight evenly throughout the entire sole of the foot - Press firmly down through the foot to activate the opposite force heading upwards - this may make you feel lighter and more stable in the pose - Navel draws in and up to support the lower back - Engage the glutes to keep your hips level - Keeping the standing knee bent a little will allow more stability - Try to press the foot of the extended leg against the wall if struggling with balance - Play with your arms in different positions: out to the sides in a T shape or diagonally behind you, or pressing the palms together in front of the chest

KEEP IN MIND

- Avoid in case of recent injuries of hips, knees, back or shoulders - Keep a slight bend in the knee if you tend to hyper-extend or lock it - Stay with your breath, no breath holding

Practicing this pose not only improves balance but also increases mental focus, concentration and will-power.