Viparita Virabhadrasana

Reverse Warrior

Back
Reverse Warrior demonstrated on a yoga mat
Right-side demonstration

How to do Reverse Warrior

  1. Keep your right knee over your right ankle as you prepare to lean back.
  2. Ground your left foot, with its outer edge roughly parallel to the mat's short edge.
  3. Rest your left hand lightly on your left thigh, away from the knee.
  4. Reach your right arm up toward the ceiling.
  5. Lengthen your right side as you arc your torso toward your left leg.
  6. Keep your chest open toward the long edge of your mat.
  7. Maintain the bend in your right knee as your torso reaches back.
  8. Let your legs support you rather than pressing down with your left hand.
  9. Bring your torso upright and open both arms to shoulder height.

Benefits

Reverse warrior carries the stretch up the side of your torso and around your ribs.

Further reading: Reverse Warrior Pose

Variations

Look toward your raised right hand if your neck stays comfortable.