Eka Pada Kakasana
Definition - What does Eka Pada Kakasana mean?
Eka pada kakasana is an advanced arm-balancing posture that requires upper body strength and coordination. The name comes from the Sanskrit, eka, meaning “one”; pada, meaning “foot”; kaka, meaning “crow”; and asana, which means “pose” or “posture.”
The asana can be entered from crow pose or handstand. The arms are bent, forming a shelf with the upper arms (triceps), which the knees rest against. One leg then extends straight back.
In English, it is called one-legged crow pose, half crow pose or flying crow pose.
Yogapedia explains Eka Pada Kakasana
Eka pada kakasana is very similar to eka pada bakasana (one-legged crane pose), but in the latter posture, the arms are straight. However, sometimes still the terms are used interchangeably.
This pose is thought to activate the muladhara (root) chakra, which is associated with mental and emotional stability, a sense of security and grounding.
In addition to its physical benefits, eka pada kakasana has these benefits:
- Stabilizes the nervous system
- Builds confidence
- Promotes introspection and mindfulness
Yogis should not attempt eka pada kakasana until they are comfortable in kakasana.