Warrior II Pose , or Virabhadrasana II , is named after an incarnation of the Hindu god Shiva that tests the strength and endurance of all practicing yogis. Warrior II is the second of three poses dedicated to Virabhadra. Level: Beginner
See Warrior I | See Warrior III
Also Known As: Warrior 2, Warrior II
Targets: Shoulder, Thigh, Ankle, Thorax, Neck, Calf, Inguinal region, Lung, Navel
Level: Beginner
Distribute your weight evenly between both legs with your front knee bent, your hips squared forward, and your arms extended over your front and back legs.
This standing posture is good for strengthening and stretching the legs and ankles. It also stimulates the abdominal organs and relieves backaches.
If your shoulders are injured or tight, bring your palms together at the center of your chest
If you want to add a shoulder opener, exhale to extend your arms behind your back, and interlace your fingers. Externally rotate the shoulders and breathe in, filling the rib cage; exhale to softly fold forward, surrendering toward the earth. If you feel strain in your hamstrings, only fold forward as far as is comfortable. To finish, inhale and return to Warrior II.
