EPK 2

eka pāda kouṇḍinyāsana IIएक पाद कौण्डिन्यासन २
EPK 2
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Benefits

Eka Pada Koundinyasana II is a highly advanced arm balance integrating a deep twist, significant core and arm strength, and balance. It is known for its detoxifying effects due to the intense twist.

Practice Guide

1

Begin in a low lunge with the right foot forward. Twist your torso to the right, bringing your left elbow to the outside of your right thigh, coming into a prayer twist (Parivrtta Anjaneyasana).

2

Place both hands shoulder-width apart on the floor to the right side of your right foot. Your left elbow should remain firmly pressing against your outer right thigh, creating a shelf.

3

Lean your weight forward into your hands, engaging your core. Lift your back (left) knee off the floor.

4

Shift more weight into your hands and onto the shelf of your left arm. Extend your back (left) leg straight and strong, lifting it parallel to the floor.

5

Simultaneously, attempt to straighten your front (right) leg out to the left side, also aiming for parallel to the floor.

6

Your upper body will resemble Chaturanga arms. Gaze over your left shoulder or maintain a forward gaze for balance.

7

Hold the pose, breathing steadily.

8

To exit, carefully lower your legs back to the lunge position, or press back to Downward-Facing Dog. Repeat on the other side.

Modifications

Keep the back knee on the floor initially while learning the arm and torso position

Use a block under the forehead for support and confidence

Focus on the core engagement and the secure placement of the elbow on the thigh before attempting to lift both legs

Practice transitioning from Revolved Side Angle Pose with hands on the floor

Safety Notes

Wrist, elbow, or shoulder injuries (rotator cuff, impingement)

Sacroiliac joint instability or pain

Pregnancy

High blood pressure

Acute lower back injuries (herniated disc)

Neck sensitivities (be mindful of gaze)

Anatomy

Muscles Targeted

Arms (triceps, shoulders, biceps)
Core (obliques, transverse abdominis, rectus abdominis)
Chest (pectorals)
Hip flexors (of side-extended leg)
Legs (quadriceps, glutes of back leg)

Muscles Stretched

Hamstrings (potentially of side-extended leg)
Spine (deep rotation)
Shoulders (mildly)
Outer hip (of twisting side)
Chest

Focus Areas

Advanced Arm BalanceDeep TwistCore Strength ObliquesUpper Body StrengthBalanceConcentrationDetoxificationPeak Pose

Yoga Styles

Signature of
Also practiced in
AdvancedPower
AdvancedUltimate peak pose requiring mastery of multiple elements
AshtangaPart of most advanced series, precise deep twist with arm balance
PowerSupreme challenge pose, demonstration of exceptional skill and strength

Sequencing

Maya's Tips

These insights help Maya understand how this pose flows with others when creating sequences and classes.

Advanced Deep Twist Arm Balance With Split LegsRequires Exceptional Spinal Flexibility Powerful Core Oblique Strength And Shoulder StabilityOften A Peak Pose In Advanced Twisting SequencesEnsure Thorough Warm Up Of Spine Hips And Shoulders