YanvaYoga > Yoga Poses > Half Supine Hero

Half Supine Hero - Ardha Supta Virasana

30.03.202307.11.2023

Half Supine Hero or Ardha Supta Virasana (ARE-DAH-SOOP-TAH-VEER-AHS-ANNA) is a variation of hero pose and a modified version of supine hero pose. It is a powerful thigh and knee stretch that requires great flexibility in the legs.
Ardha Supta Virasana is also referred to as Half Reclining Hero Pose in English.
Ardha Supta Virasana lengthens and expands front body muscles and connective tissue, including the entire length of the torso and the quadriceps, the big muscles in the fronts of your thighs—all of which shorten with front body flexion. When the front body is open, the digestive organs have more space to function efficiently, making the pose helpful for digestion.

Pose Detail

Body Position: Backbend Yoga Poses, Supine Yoga Poses
Difficulty: Beginners
By Type: Flexibility Yoga Poses, Restorative Yoga Poses
By Benefit: Yoga Poses For Digestion, Yoga Poses For Periods, Yoga Poses For Stress Relief

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Start by sitting on your heels. Extend your right leg straight out in front of you and slide your left foot out so that your buttocks can rest on the floor with the heel next to your hips.

Step 2

Carefully and gradually walk your hands behind you, slowly lowering your back towards the floor.

Step 3

Lower yourself as far as is comfortable, first lowering onto your elbows, then onto the crown of your head, and eventually onto the back of your neck.

Step 4

Rest your hands alongside your body or place them on the floor overhead with the palms together.

Step 5

Take deep breaths and hold this position for 4-8 breaths.

Step 6

To release the pose, hold onto your ankles or feet and press into your elbows, using your arms to lift your head and torso off the floor. Walk your hands back to your hips, returning to a seated position.

Step 7

Repeat the entire sequence on the other side.

Benefits and Contraindications

Benefits

Can help to alleviate lower back pain

Strengthens the back muscles

Stretches the thighs, knees and ankles

Helpful for digestion

Calms the mind.

Relieves menstrual discomfort

Improves posture

Contraindications

Low blood pressure

Severe lower back, knee or head injuries

Angina

Heart problems

Modifications and Props for Beginners

Place a bolster or folded blanket behind you and rest your upper back and head on it. This will help elevate your chest and shoulders, making it easier to breathe and relax into the pose.
If you have tight quads, you can support yourself on your hands or your elbows.
You can put a cushion under your right hip (when the left knee is bent) to level your hips.If you feel compression at your lower back, lie back on a bolster, positioned lengthwise along your spine.

Useful Tips

As you lower yourself onto your back, engage your core muscles to help support your lower back and protect your spine.
To avoid strain on your knees and lower back, keep your knees together as you lower yourself onto your back.
As you settle into the pose, relax your shoulders and allow them to sink down towards the ground. This can help release tension in your neck and upper back.
As you hold the pose, focus on your breath and allow it to deepen and slow down. This can help you relax more fully into the stretch and release tension in your body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Half Supine Hero Pose safe for everyone?

Half Supine Hero Pose can be a challenging pose for people with limited flexibility in their knees, ankles, or hips. It is important to practice the pose slowly and mindfully, and to use props or modifications as needed to prevent injury.

Can Half Supine Hero Pose be practiced during pregnancy?

It is best to consult with a qualified yoga teacher or healthcare provider before practicing Half Supine Hero Pose during pregnancy. Modifications may be necessary to accommodate your changing body.

How long should I hold Half Supine Hero Pose?

You can hold Half Supine Hero Pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or longer if it feels comfortable for you. Remember to breathe deeply and relax your body as you hold the pose.

What should I do if I experience pain or discomfort in Half Supine Hero Pose?

If you experience pain or discomfort in Half Supine Hero Pose, stop the pose immediately and seek guidance from a qualified yoga teacher or healthcare professional. It’s important to practice the pose mindfully and only move within your comfortable range of motion.