Scissor Yoga Pose

Scissor pose is an advanced yoga arm balance that is often performed after mastering Eight Angle pose, or Astavakrasana. Scissor pose involves balancing on the arms while the legs are opened up like scissor blades on one side of the body. The practice of the pose is beneficial for arm and core strength, and also helps with learning about weight transition and leg muscle activation.

Warming Up

The body should be thoroughly warmed up before attempting Scissor pose. Although the pose does not require extreme flexibility, it does require muscle activation in the core, legs and arms. Doing a few A Sun Salutations and B Sun Salutations is sufficient for warming up, according to experienced yoga instructor Patrick Beach. He also recommends opening up the hips with poses like Rock the Baby, as you'll need to be able to place your leg close to your shoulder to perform Scissor pose.

Performing Scissor Pose

The easier method for performing Scissor pose is done by starting in Downward-Facing Dog pose and then drawing your right inner thigh to your right elbow. Tuck your left elbow underneath your left rib cage and activate your core. Extend your right leg completely over your right shoulder so that it is straight. Then begin to tip your body forward, finding your balance point and shifting your body weight from your legs to your upper body. If you can keep your balance on your arms, you will be able to lift your left foot off the ground. To exit the pose, place your left foot back on the ground, release your right leg and come back into Downward-Facing Dog. Repeat the pose on the other side.

Scissor Pose From Eight Angle Pose

The more advanced method for performing Scissor pose is to transition from Eight Angle pose. Once you are in Eight Angle pose, unhook your wrapped leg and bring it to your core without touching the ground. Lift your core up as much as possible so that you can move your leg through your hands. Once the leg has passed through, straighten both legs and lift your chest so that your back straightens. To exit the pose, move your front leg off of your shoulder and shoot it back into Four-Limbed Staff pose, or Chaturanga Dandasana. Repeat the pose on the other side.

Cautions and Considerations

Since Scissor pose is considered an advanced yoga pose, it should only be attempted by experienced practitioners and under the guidance of a qualified yoga instructor. Also remember that it is important to practice the pose on both sides equally in order to maintain as much balance in your body as possible. Seek advice from an experienced teacher for this pose if you have had injuries to the shoulders, wrists or hamstrings.

Author: healthyliving.azcentral.com By Leena Oijala