Mastering the 8 Angle Pose: A Journey of Strength and Balance

During the month of June, Wheel House is  exploring one of the more challenging and rewarding poses—the 8 Angle Pose, also known as Astavakrasana. This dynamic arm balance requires strength, balance, and concentration. Join us as we break down the steps to achieving this pose and uncover the numerous benefits it offers for your mind and body.

Step-by-Step Guide to the 8 Angle Pose:

1. Warm-up: Begin by warming up your body with a few rounds of Sun Salutations or any other sequence that gets your blood flowing. Pay particular attention to stretching your wrists, shoulders, and hips, as these areas are crucial for achieving the 8 Angle Pose.
2. Squatting position: From a standing position, lower yourself into a deep squat, bringing your heels as close to your glutes as possible. Widen your knees and place your hands on the floor between your feet, fingers pointing forward.
3. Arm positioning: Shift your weight onto your hands, keeping them shoulder-width apart. Bend your elbows, allowing them to stack over your wrists. This position will help you establish a solid foundation for the arm balance.
4. Leg placement: Lift your right foot off the ground and cross it over your left thigh, resting it on your left tricep. Simultaneously, engage your core and lean forward, shifting your weight onto your hands.
5. Hooking the foot: Begin by hooking your right foot on the outside of your left tricep. Aim to create a snug fit, which will provide stability throughout the pose. Stay focused on engaging your core and maintaining balance.
6. Balancing act: Slowly start to shift your weight onto your hands, lifting your left foot off the ground. Extend it forward while simultaneously crossing your right ankle over your left ankle.
7. Engage the core: Engaging your core muscles is essential to maintain stability in the 8 Angle Pose. Imagine drawing your navel toward your spine to create a strong, supportive center.
8. Final alignment: Once you find your balance, extend your legs forward, keeping them parallel to the ground. Lengthen through your spine, relax your shoulders, and find a focal point to help steady your gaze.

Benefits of the 8 Angle Pose:

1. Strengthens the upper body: The 8 Angle Pose builds strength in the arms, wrists, and shoulders as you hold your body weight in a balanced position. Regular practice can help develop toned and defined upper body muscles.
2. Enhances core stability: Maintaining balance in the 8 Angle Pose requires a strong core. Regular practice strengthens the abdominal muscles, obliques, and lower back, leading to improved posture and stability.
3. Increases flexibility: This pose challenges the flexibility of the hips, hamstrings, and groin muscles. Consistent practice can gradually improve your overall flexibility and range of motion.
4. Develops mental focus: Balancing poses like the 8 Angle Pose demand concentration and focus. Practicing this pose enhances mindfulness, calming the mind and reducing stress.
5. Boosts self-confidence: Mastering the 8 Angle Pose is an empowering achievement. As you gradually build strength, balance, and flexibility, your self-confidence will soar, both on and off the mat.

The 8 Angle Pose offers a rewarding journey of physical and mental growth. Through regular practice and patience, you can master this challenging arm balance, reaping the benefits of increased strength, flexibility, and self-confidence. Remember to approach this pose with mindfulness and respect for your body’s limits. So, step onto your mat, embrace the challenge, and discover the transformative power of the 8 Angle Pose in your fitness journey.

Join us on Thursdays at 5:15pm at our FIDI location to learn how to do the pose with the guidance of an experienced yoga instructor. You can use the below links to quickly book into our Angle 8 Peak Pose Classes:

• June 15th at 5:15pm
• June 22nd at 5:15pm
• June 29th at 5:15pm

*Classes open for booking 2 weeks in advance.