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Day 2 Viparita Virabhadrasana  

Reverse Warrior Pose

 

 

 

 

Viparita Virabhadrasana (VIP-uh-REE-tuh veer-uh-buh-DRAHS-uh-nuh) 

is a standing yoga pose that stretches the waist and energizes the whole body. It’s usually practiced in Vinyasa Flow classes as part of a “Dancing Warrior” sequence that moves from Warrior I to Warrior II, then directly into Reverse Warrior. For this reason, Reverse Warrior Pose is sometimes referred to as “Dancing Warrior.”

Its name comes from the Hindu mythological warrior, Virabhadra, an incarnation of the god Shiva. Virabhadra was a tall, dark, and fierce deity, depicted with a thousand arms, flaming hair and eyes, and wearing a garland of skulls. The word “Viparita” means “reverse” in Sanskrit, and “asana” means “pose.” 

 

BENEFITS:

Reverse Warrior strengthens and stretches the legs, groins, hips, and the sides of the torso and waist. It improves flexibility in the spine, inner thighs, ankles, and chest. It also builds strength in the thighs, shoulders, and arms. A deep stretch to the torso, Reverse Warrior increases blood flow throughout the body, which reduces fatigue and helps calm the mind. Practicing this pose regularly will build stamina and can help to relieve low back pain.

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