To enter UTTHITA HASTA PADANGUSTHASANA- HAND TO BIG TOE, start at the front of your mat in a standing position. Bring one knee up toward your chest with both hands. Pull the knee toward you as you find your balance on the other foot. It is often helpful to seek a specific spot opposite you to stare at when performing a balance posture.
When you are ready grab your big toe with your index and middle fingers and extend the leg as far as you can. It is ok to have a slight bend in the standing knee. If you cannot extend your leg all the way do not worry, because it will come with practice. Honor yourself and be where you are. Hold this balance for 6 – 12 breaths and repeat on the other side.
When you have conquered the foot straight out in front, challenge yourself to open your hip and guide the foot out to the side while maintaining your balance. Move your opposite arm as necessary to help maintain balance if you wish.
Benefits:
The extended hand to big toe pose strengthens the legs, thighs, knees, and ankles and improves balance. This yoga pose also stretches the back of the legs and boosts concentration and focus. This pose can also help with digestion, as it puts pressure on the digestive system through the up-raised leg and foot and promotes circulation. When in the extended position to the side this posture will also open the hips.
Remember, as above so below. Balance, when practiced in yoga, promotes balance in life as well.
If you are practicing your balancing postures, another good one to try is Tree Pose!
