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Leg Behind Head Poses Part 2

13 mins

This class continues the study of leg-behind-head poses with emphasis on active hip action over passive forcing. Begin from Daṇḍāsana: lift the foot, move the thigh–shin to a right angle, and guide the leg back first, then across, ducking the head under as needed. Props like chair and blocks are introduced step by step—starting high, then lowering—to give leverage without overusing arms or collapsing into support. Students are reminded to hook the foot on the edge (not rest it flat) so the hip stays alive and engaged. The mantra is to try your best version first before using props, so reliance on the chair stays minimal. Wall support with the straight leg pressing in adds clarity and stability. Work alternates between sides, gradually lowering the setup, always focusing on the leg itself taking the action rather than the arms doing the work. We also cover why to bend the support knee (like a lunge): it keeps the back safe and integrates the whole body. Finally, links are made to Dvi Pāda Śīrṣāsana as a natural progression, showing how these drills prepare the hips for two-legs-behind-head work. The essence: leg-behind-head is trained as a series of active, incremental gestures, where struggle is welcome and props are tools, not crutches.