Eka Pada GalavasanaAdvancedstanding

Eka Pada Galavasana

एक पाद गालवासन

Eka Pada Galavasana (Flying Pigeon) is an arm balance combining Figure-4 hip opening with a back leg extension.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

4

Avoid If

4
  • Wrist injuries
  • Hip injuries
  • Knee injuries
  • Shoulder injuries

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Locking the knees — keep a micro-bend or engage the quadriceps
Collapsing the arches of the feet — distribute weight evenly
Holding the breath or breathing shallowly
Hunching the shoulders toward the ears
Leaning weight to one side — keep both feet equally grounded
Forcing the hips open beyond their current range

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

6 cues
  • 1Ground firmly through all four corners of both feet
  • 2Engage the quadriceps by lifting the kneecaps
  • 3Lengthen the spine from the tailbone to the crown of the head
  • 4Draw the shoulder blades down and back
  • 5Maintain steady, even breathing throughout
  • 6Allow the hip joints to open gradually — never force

Pose Details

Helps With

strengthflexibility

Pose Type

arm balancehip opener

Body Focus

upper bodyhips

Focus Areas

strengthbalanceflexibility

Yoga Styles

vinyasapower

When to Practice

peak pose

Position

standing

Target Areas

AbsDeltoidsForearmGlutes

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Eka Pada Galavasana (Flying Pigeon) is an arm balance combining Figure-4 hip opening with a back leg extension.

How to Practice

1

1. Stand in Tadasana.

2

2. Place right ankle on left thigh (Figure-4).

3

3. Bend left knee — like Chair Pose.

4

4. Fold forward, palms on floor.

5

5. Hook right foot on left upper arm.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Eka Pada Galavasana

What is Eka Pada Galavasana?

Eka Pada Galavasana (Flying Pigeon) is an arm balance combining Figure-4 hip opening with a back leg extension.

What are the benefits of Eka Pada Galavasana?

Combines hip opening with arm balance. Develops wrist and core strength. Spectacular peak pose. Builds concentration.

Who should avoid Eka Pada Galavasana?

Avoid this pose if you have: Wrist injuries, Hip injuries, Knee injuries, Shoulder injuries.

How many steps are in Eka Pada Galavasana?

Eka Pada Galavasana is practiced in 10 steps. Stand in Tadasana.

Is Eka Pada Galavasana suitable for beginners?

Eka Pada Galavasana is an advanced-level pose. Beginners should practice with props or under guidance.

What conditions does Eka Pada Galavasana help with?

Eka Pada Galavasana is therapeutic for: strength, flexibility.

What poses should I do before Eka Pada Galavasana?

Prepare with: Tadasana, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Standing Forward Bend, Warrior I. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

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