Your Guide To The “Perfect” Chaturanga

Whether you’ve been an off-and-on yogi for a year or two now or yoga is one of your New Year’s goals, you’ve come to the right place. You’ve likely heard “Chaturanga Dandasana” in your class a time or two — OK you’ve probably heard it a lot. With how often we practice the Chaturanga, or “Four-Limbed Staff Pose,” in yoga classes, you want to make sure you’re doing it right. This will prevent injury and improve strength.

In today’s blog, we’re going to discuss four tips to help you perfect your Chaturanga. Spoiler, though: there’s no such thing as the “perfect” Chaturanga. This forearm push-up is exactly what you make of it each time you attend a yoga class, but we hope this guide will help. Put it to use when you visit Yoga Pod Austin for your next yoga class. You can get your first 30 days of classes for only $30 — sign up today.

Be Hard Core

You’d think this yogafied pushup would be all about your arms and shoulders, but your core plays a vital role in strengthening your Chaturanga. And, sure — you hear “engage your core” all the time during yoga classes. How do you actually do it? Imagine pulling and pressing your belly button toward your spine. As you do this, you should feel your lower core activate.

As you have a strong core during a Chaturanga, you’ll notice that all parts of your body touch your mat at the same time — and leave your mat at the same time.

Be Hands-On

In yoga, your hands may carry more weight than you realize — both literally and figuratively.

While doing a Chaturanga, your hands should be directly below your shoulders; you should spread your weight evenly through your hands — not just in the base; your thumbs should pull toward each other, creating an “L” with your pointer finger and thumb; and the tip of your middle finger should point directly in front of you. All of this will lead to proper alignment of your shoulders and protection for your wrists.

Pay Attention To Lines

While at your next yoga class — be it beginner yoga, advanced yoga, or hot yoga — imagine you’re looking at yourself during Chaturanga. Here are some lines to be aware of:

• A straight line from your shoulders down to your wrists
• Your neck continues the straight line of your spine
• The line of your back blends into the line of your legs without changing
• Your elbows hug to your sides when you lower, following the line of your body
• Your feet are perpendicular to the ground and your toes are bent

Visit Yoga Pod Austin For Yoga Classes Today

Whether you’re looking for yoga meditation, infrared hot yoga classes, advanced yoga, or beginner yoga, we’re the yoga studio for you. Our experienced yoga teachers will guide you through your practice and help you strengthen your mind and body — one Chaturanga at a time.