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One-Legged King Pigeon Pose - Eka Pada Rajakapotasana

How to Do One-Legged King Pigeon Pose - Eka Pada Rajakapotasana

By Ann Pizer, About.com

Updated: July 16, 2008

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One-Legged King Pigeon - Eka Pada Rajakapotasana

Photo © Barry Stone
Type of pose: Hip opener, Backbend

Benefits: Stretches the thighs, groins, back, and psoas. Opens the chest and shoulders.

Instructions:

1. From Pigeon Pose, bend the left knee.

2. Take hold of the left toes with your left hand and raise your elbow up toward the ceiling.

3. Reach the right hand for the left toes as well, bringing the right elbow up.

4. Let the head come back until the sole of the foot is close to or touching the top of the head.

Beginners: This is an intense backbend, and should only be attempted by very experienced practitioners. Pigeon Pose is a more moderate version of the pose.

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