Eagle Arms
Maya - Pose Assistant
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Benefits
Eagle Arms is the upper body component of Eagle Pose, focusing on stretching the shoulders, upper back, and between the shoulder blades. This arm position can be practiced seated, standing, or as part of other poses to release tension in the upper body.
Practice Guide
Extend both arms straight out to the sides at shoulder height.
Cross your right arm under your left arm at the elbows.
Bend both elbows and bring your forearms perpendicular to the floor.
If possible, wrap your right hand around to meet your left palm (or back of left hand).
If palms don't meet, hold opposite shoulders or use a strap.
Lift your elbows slightly and draw your hands away from your face.
Feel the stretch between your shoulder blades and across your upper back.
Hold for several breaths, then switch sides (left arm under right).
Modifications
Hold opposite shoulders if hands don't meet
Use a strap between hands if needed
Practice with arms at different heights to find comfortable position
Can be done seated in a chair for accessibility
Gentle side-to-side movement to increase stretch
Safety Notes
⚠Recent shoulder surgery or injury
⚠Severe shoulder impingement
⚠Acute neck injury (avoid if causes neck strain)
Anatomy
Muscles Stretched
What's Next?
Maya suggests trying these poses:
Focus Areas
Yoga Styles
Sequencing
Counter Poses
✨ Maya's Tips
These insights help Maya understand how this pose flows with others when creating sequences and classes.