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No. 07 · Standing

Warrior II

Vīrabhadrāsana IIवीरभद्रासन २

A wide, open stance with arms extended: steady hips, bright gaze, strong legs.

Level
Foundational
Hold
30–45 seconds each side
Difficulty
Difficulty 2 of 5

General guidance only — work within a range that feels stable and pain-free.

Photograph · Standing

A person in Warrior II with a wide stance, front knee bent and arms extended to the sides
Vīrabhadrāsana II · वीरभद्रासन २Photo: lululemon athletica (CC BY 2.0)

How to practice

  1. 01

    Step the feet wide and turn the right foot out 90 degrees, the left foot slightly in.

  2. 02

    Bend the right knee toward 90 degrees so it stacks over the ankle.

  3. 03

    Extend the arms parallel to the floor, gazing over the right fingertips.

  4. 04

    Keep the torso upright, the tailbone down and the back leg firm.

  5. 05

    Hold, then straighten the front leg and change sides.

Benefits

  • Strengthens the legs and glutes
  • Opens the hips and chest
  • Builds endurance in a held shape
  • Trains a calm, focused gaze

Breath

Slow and even. Let the exhale widen the collarbones rather than drop the chest.

Cautions

Variations

Hands on hips
Focus on the legs and hips without shoulder fatigue.
Narrow stance
A shorter stance for tighter hips.

The practice letter

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