Yoga Pose of the Week: Goddess Pose

Goddess Pose is one of my personal favorite poses. If you  have seen any of my past yoga shoots you will see that it one of my go to poses (exhibit A below).

In Sanskrit Goddess Pose is Utkata Konasana is known as fiery angle pose. This pose allows us to tap into our feminine energy while strengthening and stretching the lower part of our body.

1. Start in a wide standing stance. Turn your toes out and your heels in, so your feet are about a 45 degree angle.
2. Bend your knees in the same direction as your toes, and lower your hips down toward the height of your knees.
3. Reach your arms out at shoulder height and bend your elbows so that your fingertips point skyward. Spread your fingertips wide and activate the muscles across your back.
4. Engage your core muscles and draw your tailbone in the direction of the floor. Keep your spine long and your muscles engaged.
5. Stay here for 30 seconds to one minute, then release.

• Stretches your hips, groin, and chest.
• Tones and strengthens the core muscles.
• Strengthens the quadriceps and inner thigh muscles.
• Heats the body and increases circulation.

Source: https://www.gaia.com/article/goddess-pose-utkata-konasana