Agnistambhasana Firelog Pose

Foundations of Posture:

Come to a seated position with your legs straight in front of you.  Root the leg bones down into the hamstring muscles so it makes contact with the ground. Note: Heels should not lift off the ground while doing this.  Modification: If you can not sit up with a straight spine, use a blanket or cushion under the back part of your buttocks to help rotate the pelvis forward and aid you in having a straight spine. Bend your left knee so the shin of your left leg is parallel to your body and knee is slightly on the outside of your body.  Left foot should come to the outside line of the right side of your body. Bring your hands high up onto your left thigh so your left hand is on the outside of your thigh and the right hand is on the inside of your thigh.  Manually, grab the thigh with both hands (thumbs will be close to each other) and pick the thigh slightly off the ground and push the inner thigh down as you move the fleshy part of outer thigh away from you.   Stack the right leg on top of the left so the right ankle is on top of the left knee and your two shin bones are stacked on top of each other. Bring your hands high up onto your right thigh so your right hand is on the outside of your thigh and the left hand is on the inside of your thigh.  Manually, grab the thigh with both hands (thumbs will be close to each other) and pick the thigh slightly off the ground and push the inner thigh down as you move the fleshy part of outer thigh away from you. This should help bring the knee further down and open the hip more.  Angles are at a 90 degree angle and toes are spread apart and happy = this helps protect and strengthen your knees. You can apply gently pressure to your right knee to help guide it down.  If you experience any knee discomfort release the pressure. Advanced Posture: If your ankles and knees are stacked on top of each other, begin to hinge at the hips walking your palms out in front of you while drawing the shoulder blades onto your back. To release: Slowly walk your hands back in and raise up with a straight spine.  Uncross your legs and repeat on other side.

Yogafamily.com is not liable for any injuries that may occur when trying these poses.  The posture series is meant as a guide to home practice.  It is not for beginners.  Before beginning any physical activity, yogafamily.com advises that you speak with your doctor and take several classes with a certified instructor.