Hero Pose

About Hero Pose

The root of virasana is vira, the Sanskrit word for “hero” or “chief.”

The benefits of this asana include:

• Relief from leg swelling, especially during pregnancy
• Strengthened and limber arches of the feet, ankles, knees, and thighs
• Improved digestion

Step into the Pose

To Perform Hero Pose

1. Begin in Child's Pose.
2. Move your heels to either side of your buttocks.
3. On an exhale, extend your torso up, using your hands to rotate the skin of the thighs outward.
4. Sit on the floor, buttocks between your legs. (Note: some yogis perform this pose while sitting on their heels).
5. Inhale, and rise up fully, keeping your back straight.
6. Rest your palms on your thighs,
7. Draw the shoulder blades down into the back, breathing deep into the belly to open the chest.
8. Hold the pose for one minute or more, or five minutes if advanced.

If you have ankle or knee problems, seek assistance before attempting this position.

For more instructions on Hero Pose, visit Yoga Journal.

If you can’t sit on the floor, sit on a block or a thick book.

Beginner

Using yoga equipment helps you ease in this pose, especially if your thighs are tight. Or try something handy and simple, like a folded blanket.

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