In my previous post, we explored the wonders of Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle), a fantastic pose to delve into the depths of your hips and create sublime length for a healthy relationship between your lower and upper body. Today, we're taking it a step further as we spread our wings and soar into the captivating realm of Bird of Paradise (Svarga Dvidasana). Join me to dive in and unlock the secrets to open hips and groin that will empower you to master this awe-inspiring pose.
To prepare your body for the majestic Bird of Paradise, it's essential to focus on hip-opening practices. Here are a series of poses that will guide you towards that open and expansive feeling, you can explore them in any order: Virabhadrasana II (Warrior II), Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle), Low Lunge, Lizard, Trikonasana (Triangle), and Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon). These postures will awaken your hips, gradually increasing your mobility and flexibility.
Now, let's add an element of balance to the equation.
Incorporating balancing poses into your routine will help you cultivate stability and grace, enhancing your experience in Bird of Paradise. Practice poses such as: High Lunge, Hasta Padangusthasana (Hand to Big Toe pose) and Vrkasana (Tree pose), allowing your body to find equilibrium, while building strength and concentration. To facilitate a comfortable bind in Bird of Paradise, I highly recommend incorporating twisting poses into your practice. Twists such as Half Lord of the Fishes pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana) and Lizard pose with a twist can work wonders. These poses allow you to bring your shoulder low and experiment with the bind, effectively preparing you for the intricate threading of your leg in Bird of Paradise.
While transitioning into Bird of Paradise, it's crucial to maintain a safe position for your shoulders when binding. One way to achieve this is by devoting time to strengthening and mobilizing your hamstrings. If you encounter difficulty in fully straightening your knee in the final expression of Bird of Paradise, focus on engaging the bind while finding balance. By focusing your concentration on hugging your thigh towards the center with a strong alliance of your extended leg, you will create a safe and stable foundation.
To encourage your knee to straighten, practice quadriceps and hip flexor strength, as these areas play a significant role in achieving the desired outcome. By strengthening these muscles, you'll minimize the risk of placing excessive strain on your shoulders due to tight or weak hamstrings.
Always remember that your body functions as a harmonious unit. It's imperative to adequately prepare yourself for challenging poses such as Bird of Paradise. Take the time to listen to your body, honoring its needs and limitations. Engage in a dedicated and mindful practice, gradually building strength, flexibility, and balance.
With patience, perseverance, and proper preparation, you'll be amazed at what you can accomplish 🤩
Bird of Paradise will transcend into an authentic expression of your personal journey, symbolizing open hips and empowering strength. This remarkable pose not only fosters flexibility, yet also strengthens your ankle, knee, and standing leg, empowering you to conquer other demanding yoga poses with a sense of liberation. So spread your wings and embrace the freedom to soar high in your practice!
As you play with mastering Bird of Paradise, remember that open hips are the 🌟 gateway 🌟 to unlocking your full potential (off your mat too). Embrace the transformative power of hip-opening practices, nurture strength and flexibility, and allow yourself to soar 🪽to new heights. With each step, may your (open) hips become a source of liberation, stability, and self-expression. Embrace the beauty of open hips and let them guide you towards the freedom and grace of the Bird of Paradise pose.
Enjoy the journey!
Janel 🧘♀️🦎
DISCLAIMER: The content of this video is for educational and informational purposes only, it is not intended as medical advice or treatment. The information in this video is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease, health issue, or illness. The purpose of this video is to encourage you to make cognizant decisions about your body and overall health after consulting with your physician or a qualified health professional (QHP). By watching this video and reading this blog post, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health and fitness decisions. You need to consult with your physician or a qualified health professional (QHP) prior to making any health or fitness changes, especially any changes related to a specific diagnosis or condition.
I am not a medical doctor or medical professional and I do not dispense medical advice or prescribe treatment. If you feel or believe that you have a medical problem or concern, contact your physician or health care provider immediately. Always consult with your medical doctor and/or health care provider before and/or making any other health/fitness related changes.
I am not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences that might result if you choose to make use of this video and blog post or apply any of the information that you have read on janelduross.com. By watching this video and blog post, visiting janelduross.com, and/or otherwise engaging with this information, you agree that you are solely responsible for any health and/or fitness decisions you make.
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