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Ustrasana Variation with Hands on Heels

उष्ट्रासन विविध हाथों से एड़ी पर

This Ustrasana variation is a gentle backbend that opens the chest and stretches the front of the body. It improves flexibility and stimulates the digestive organs.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

4
  • High blood pressure
  • Neck injuries
  • Migraines
  • Knee injuries

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Dropping the head back without control — keep the neck long initially
Pushing the hips forward past the knees — stack hips over knees
Compressing the lumbar spine — lead with the chest, not the lower back
Squeezing the buttocks too tightly — firm but not clenched
Holding the breath — breathe steadily throughout

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

6 cues
  • 1Kneel with knees hip-width apart, thighs perpendicular to the floor
  • 2Place hands on the sacrum with fingers pointing down
  • 3Lift the sternum strongly toward the ceiling before arching back
  • 4Press the shins and tops of the feet firmly into the floor
  • 5Keep the hips directly above the knees — do not push them forward
  • 6Reach for the heels only when the chest is fully open

Pose Details

Pose Type

backbend

Body Focus

spinechestcore

Focus Areas

flexibilitystrengthbreathing

Best For

beginners

Yoga Styles

hathaiyengar

When to Practice

peak pose

Position

kneeling

Target Areas

QuadsAbsChestDeltoids

Practice Flow

About this Pose

This Ustrasana variation is a gentle backbend that opens the chest and stretches the front of the body. It improves flexibility and stimulates the digestive organs.

How to Practice

1

1. Begin in Vajrasana.

2

2. Rise onto your knees, keeping your knees and feet hip-width apart.

3

3. Place your hands on your lower back, fingers pointing down.

4

4. Inhale and gently lean back, opening your chest towards the ceiling.

5

5. If possible, reach back and grasp your heels with your hands. If not, keep hands on lower back.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Ustrasana Variation with Hands on Heels

What is Ustrasana Variation with Hands on Heels?

This Ustrasana variation is a gentle backbend that opens the chest and stretches the front of the body. It improves flexibility and stimulates the digestive organs.

What are the benefits of Ustrasana Variation with Hands on Heels?

Improves flexibility. Stretches the chest and abdomen. Strengthens back muscles. Stimulates digestive organs. Opens the heart chakra.

Who should avoid Ustrasana Variation with Hands on Heels?

Avoid this pose if you have: High blood pressure, Neck injuries, Migraines, Knee injuries.

How many steps are in Ustrasana Variation with Hands on Heels?

Ustrasana Variation with Hands on Heels is practiced in 10 steps. Begin in Vajrasana.

Is Ustrasana Variation with Hands on Heels suitable for beginners?

Yes, Ustrasana Variation with Hands on Heels is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What poses should I do before Ustrasana Variation with Hands on Heels?

Prepare with: Camel Pose, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Bhujangasana, Setu Bandhasana. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

Combine Ustrasana Variation with Hands on Heels with other poses