Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana / Extended Hand to Big Toe Pose

Balancing Poses
Written By irene izquierdo

Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana, or Extended Hand to Big Toe Pose, enhances balance, flexibility, and focus while stretching the hamstrings and improving hip mobility.

  • Begin in Mountain Pose (Tadasana) and shift the weight onto the left foot.

  • Bend the right knee and lift the leg, clasping the right big toe with the first two fingers of the right hand.

  • Straighten the right leg forward, keeping the spine long and the shoulders relaxed.

  • Extend the left arm out to the side for balance or place the left hand on the left hip.

  • Keep the right foot flexed and the toes pointing towards the sky, engaging the quadriceps.

  • Find a focal point to gaze at and breathe deeply into the stretch.

  • Explore variations such as using a yoga strap around the foot or bending the knee slightly if flexibility is limited.

Benefits:

  • Strengthens the legs and ankles

  • Stretches the hamstrings

  • Improves balance and focus

  • Increases concentration

  • Promotes calmness

Access detailed teaching cues, benefits, contraindications, and variations of Extended Hand to Big Toe Pose through our Yoga Asanas Card Deck. Perfect for beginners, intermediates, and yoga teacher trainees. Get yours today for a deeper understanding of yoga and enhance your practice!

irene izquierdo
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