REVERSE WARRIOR (Viparita Virabhadrasana)
REVERSE WARRIOR
A great all-purpose standing posture, Reverse Warrior opens the heart, allowing for greater vulnerability, while simultaneously grounding and building strength.
I love to take this pose after SIDE ANGLE or EXTENDED SIDE ANGLE because it nicely counteracts, and balances the two sides of the body.
I feel like this pose pretty much sums up my state of my mind lately – GOD, I’m ready for all you’ve got for me. There is fierceness and surrender in this posture – it’s really a beautiful one.
ALIGNMENT
In WARRIOR I, (right side), on an inhale, trace an arc on the sky with the right arm.
Allow the left arm to drop down to the left leg, or behind the back at the waist.
Gaze up at the lifted palm.
On an exhale, come back to WARRIOR II.
BENEFITS
- Strengthen the legs, ankles, and neck
- Opens the hips and groins
- Great for opening the entire front side of the body – obliques, chest, heart and shoulders
VARIATIONS
If you like the idea of leaning the head back and exposing the throat center (5th chakra), you can drop the head back slightly, arching the spine.
The Throat Chakra is the gateway to self-expression, truthfulness in expression and creativity.
Here are some throat chakra affirmations:
I am open, clear, and honest in my communication.
I have a right to speak my truth.
I communicate my feelings with ease.
I express myself creatively through speech, writing, or art.
I have a strong will that lets me resolve my challenges.
I nourish my spirit through creativity.
I live an authentic life.
I have integrity.
I love to share my experiences and wisdom.
I know when it is time to listen.
I express my gratitude towards life.
I listen to my body and my feelings to know what my truth is.
I take good care of my physical body.
I am at peace.
Catherine Tingey
Entrepreneur, yogini, designer, award-winning filmmaker, personal trainer and former marathon runner. She left a career in finance to start her own business and along the way, became a yoga teacher. She has been practicing yoga for 31 years and teaching privately for 11 years.
About the Author
Catherine Tingey+ Entrepreneur, yogini, designer, award-winning filmmaker, personal trainer and former marathon runner. She left a career in finance to start her own business and along the way, became a yoga teacher. She has been practicing yoga for 31 years and teaching privately for 11 years.
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