Garuda = Eagle, Asana = Pose/Posture

Garudasana  is a standing yoga posture that requires balance and concentration. 

Steps

Stand in Samasthiti Asana (Mountain Pose) with your feet together and your arms relaxed at your sides. Take a deep breath two times.

1. Bend your knees slightly and raise your left leg so that your thigh is parallel to the floor. Cross your left thigh over your right thigh. Your left toes should be pointing downwards.
2. Balance on your right foot and bring your left foot to rest on the back of your right calf or ankle.
3. Bring your arms in front of you, parallel to the floor, and then cross your right arm over your left arm.Slowly turn your hands so that your palms face one another. Simultaneously press your palms together and stretch your fingers upwards.
4. Keep your gaze steady and take a few deep breaths, feeling the stretch in your legs, hips, and arms.
5. To release, uncross your arms and legs and come back to Tadasana.
6. Repeat on the other side.
7. It’s important to be cautious and use a wall or chair for balance if you are new to this pose. And Remember to breathe through the entire pose and be mindful to avoid any injury and only go to a comfortable range of motion.

Tips

To Modify: While learning to balance, use a wall to support your back or with a chair and increase stability.

Benefits

1. Strengthens and stretches the ankles and calves. Stretches the thighs, hips, shoulders, and upper back. Improves concentration. Improves sense of balance.
2. Stretches the hips, thighs, shoulders, and upper back
3. Improves balance
4. Strengthens the calves