with Erica Kaufman

Analyzing Asana prepared by:  Katie Arbulu with feedback from Erica

“The amount of energy awakened through the asana is in direct correlation to the amount of extension the practitioner engages into the root, through the energy line and out through the expression points.” ~Erica

Warrior II- Virabhadrasana II

Starting on the right side:

Start with right foot forward toward the front of the mat bent with the knee heading towards the little toe.  The degree of the bend should not exceed a 90 degree angle, but can be less for a milder impact on the muscles. Make sure the knee doesn’t bend past the toes. Keep the left extended and toward the back of the mat with left toes turned slightly forward.

Extend arms out until parallel to the mat and spread open chest and shoulders to the side while the gaze is turned forward, looking past the right finger tips.

The main energy pathways –

• From the right foot, up through the arch and through the right knee.
• The left foot press down on the outer edge of the foot and spiral energy up the leg.
• Arms reach in both directions and the energy is continuous flow in and out through the fingertips.

Modification-

• This asana can be done seated with the focus on the upper body.   If the practitioner is ready, the chair can be used to support the torso but the legs can be spread into the asana alignment.
• Spread open the chest and arms and take your gaze over the right finger tips.
• Keep the shoulders down and ignite the energy from the heart center out through the arms and fingers.

Benefits-

• There are many benefits to practicing this asana for the mind, body, and spirit.
  • Mind- Clears the mind and keeps you focused.
  • Body- strengthens the muscles in the legs and tones the upper body by supporting the lifting of the arms.
  • Spirit- opens the heart center and continuously stimulates the energy flowing throughout the body and out into the world around you.

How to Assist-

• Stand next to the student, facing their back, and help them open the right knee towards the pinky toe to allow a direct energy line up through the arch of the foot, and out through the bent knee.
• Also help the left thigh roll back by gently joining their spiraling energy and rolling the thigh back toward you.
• To keep their shoulders down, gently place both hands on both of their shoulders and they should relax down.
• To help keep their tail bone released, a light touch to the pelvis can direct them in the correct alignment.
• Trace the energy lines with your hands so they can feel where they should start looking for that energy to flow.