Flexibility
Upward Salute
urdhva-hastasana
About the Pose
An extension of Mountain Pose, Urdhva Hastasana is an invigorating full-body stretch. By reaching the arms overhead, you lengthen the entire spine and side body, opening the chest and shoulders. It is a gesture of reaching up towards something greater, embodying a sense of joy, expansiveness, and connection to the sky.
How to Practice
- Begin in Mountain Pose (Tadasana).
- On an inhale, sweep your arms out to the sides and up overhead.
- Keep your shoulders relaxed away from your ears, even as you reach up.
- You can keep your palms shoulder-width apart facing each other, or press them together.
- Gaze can be forward or slightly up towards your hands, being careful not to crunch your neck.
- Engage your core to prevent your lower ribs from flaring out.
Purpose & Benefits
- Full Body Stretch: Stretches the belly, side body, shoulders, and armpits.
- Improves Digestion: The gentle stretch of the abdomen can stimulate the digestive organs.
- Energizes the Body: The expansive movement helps to relieve fatigue and mild anxiety.
- Opens the Chest: Improves lung capacity and promotes deeper breathing.