Warrior II
Virabhadrasana II
A strong, open standing pose. We will build it up one step at a time. Give yourself plenty of room on either side.
5 gentle steps · about a minute
Stand tall
Begin standing at the top of your mat, feet together and shoulders soft.
Settle with one slow breath.
Step your feet wide
Step or lightly hop your feet wide apart, about the length of one leg, with your arms resting by your sides.
Feel grounded through both feet.
Turn your front foot
Turn your right foot out to point along the mat, and angle your back foot in just a little.
Steady and even.
Bend your front knee
Bend your right knee so it stacks over your ankle, never past your toes. Keep your back leg strong and straight.
Sink only as far as feels good.
Open your arms and gaze
Reach your arms out to shoulder height, palms down, and look gently out over your front hand. Stay for a few breaths, then change sides.
Strong arms, soft breath.
Strong work.
That is Warrior II. Notice how steady and open it feels. Here is Michelle in the full pose.
Good for: Strengthens the legs and core, and builds endurance and concentration.