Overcoming Your Fears To Master The Crow

Is there a yoga pose that you looked at and thought no way, there’s no way I can do that? Then after hours of yoga practice you suddenly find yourself doing it and it gives you such a buzz! The Crow (Bakasana) was the first yoga pose to fill me with trepidation but gave me such a sense of achievement when I could finally do it.

I’m so glad I persevered with the Crow as this pose has so many benefits. As an arm balance it not only strengthens your arms and your wrists but it also strengthens and tones your abs and legs and is great for your spine.

In addition to the physical benefits the Crow also focuses your mind. Because you’re essentially balancing your whole body on your arms you have to concentrate on what you’re doing and what you’re feeling to stop yourself from falling flat on your face.

How to do the Crow:

• Squat with your knees spread wide. Put your arms between your legs and stretch your arms out in front of you.
• Place your upper arms in front of your shins and bend your elbows.
• Lift your hips and lean forward so your elbows are over your wrists.
• Rock forward and back a few times, keeping your gaze level, this will help you distribute your weight evenly before you go into the full pose.
• When you feel comfortable lean forward and lift one foot off the floor and then the other.
• For a variation you can place your feet on a foam block.
• Hold the pose for a few seconds when you’re starting out and as you get more comfortable with the pose you can hold it for longer and lift your legs higher.

Remember it’s not about how high you can lift your legs it’s about strengthening your body and improving balance, both physically and mentally.