Bhujapidasana

Shoulder Pressing

CoreArms
Shoulder Pressing demonstrated on a yoga mat

How to do Shoulder Pressing

  1. From a wide squat, lean forward and bring your shoulders beneath your thighs.
  2. Plant your palms beneath your thighs, about shoulder-width apart.
  3. Spread your fingers and press through the bases of your fingers.
  4. Rest the backs of your thighs high on your upper arms.
  5. Draw your thighs inward against your upper arms to keep the contact secure.
  6. Bend your elbows slightly and ease your hips back until your feet become light.
  7. Firm your abdomen and lift both feet only when your hands can support your weight.
  8. Cross your ankles without pulling either foot into place.
  9. Uncross your ankles and lower your feet to the mat with control.

Benefits

Shoulder-pressing pose asks for balance as well as strength in the arms and wrists.

Further reading: Shoulder-Pressing Pose

Variations

Keep your feet on the floor while you practice transferring weight into your hands.