Five Pointed Star Pose - Utthita Tadasana
Contents
Five Pointed Star Pose or Utthita Tadasana (oot-tee-tah TAHD-AH-sah-nah) is an active pose that invigorates and energizes the body and improves posture. It is also used as a starting or transition pose for many yoga asanas.
Utthita Tadasana is also a great chest opener and aids in spine lengthening as well. The open stance, with hands and legs spread to the sides in this pose, invites happiness and joy in life and makes you feel powerful.
Pose Detail
- Difficulty: Beginners
- By Type: Chest Opening Yoga Poses
- Body Position: Standing Yoga Poses
- By Benefit: Yoga Poses For Anxiety And Panic Attack, Yoga Poses For Stress Relief
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
From Mountain Pose, step the feet wide apart, with the arms out to the side. The feet should be under the wrists, facing forward and parallel.
Step 2
Press your weight into the feet, pull up the knee caps and squeeze the thighs, tuck the tailbone, and feel the legs strong and solid, rooted into the floor.
Step 3
Reach out through the fingertips, trying to touch the side walls. Relax the shoulders down and back, gently opening the chest towards the front of the room.
Step 4
Inhale and press the crown of the head up towards the ceiling. Look straight ahead with the chin parallel to the floor.
Step 5
Inhale deeply into the belly and chest, exhale press into the feet, fingers and crown, feeling your body expanding out in 5 directions.
Step 6
Keep breathing and hold for 4-8 breaths.
Step 7
To release, bend one knee and step back into Mountain Pose.
Benefits and Contraindications
Benefits
Strengthens and lengthens the body
Aligns the spine
Strengthens legs, ankles, abdomen and back
Contraindications
None. This pose is safe for everyone
Photo poses in different angles
Modifications, Props and Tips
- Do not lock your knees it will put a strain on them. Keep a micro-bend for flexibility and ease in the pose.
- Keep your shoulders relaxed, which will automatically keep them away from your ears.
- Your ears, shoulders and hips should be in line. It will help in correcting your posture.
- To avoid getting distracted, choose a focal point directly in front of you. Be aware of your breath and keep it stable.
- For a deeper heart opening experience, broaden your collarbones.
- Keep your pelvis neutral in order to get a straight spine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Variations
- Extended Triangle Pose
- Balancing Star Pose
