Pose of the Month: Virabhadrasana II - Warrior II

By Danny ChaconHi Folks!

For the first time ever I'm sharing something very special about my yoga practice. I truly believe we all have a warrior inside of us. When a challenge arises, we must choose to accept the

obstacle.The obstacle is the way and with this path we may find peace. To choose to plant our feet, let strength flow through our body and heart. Warrior II  (Virabhadrasana II) is the ideal pose that has been a staple in my practice. As a Professional Fighter, former armature world champion in Mixed Martial Arts and newly certified Yoga teacher, I find so much empowerment in this pose and all it's benefits.Warrior II allows you work your entire physical and mental body. It requires you to become powerful in your legs, groin, chest, and arms, while also increasing your stamina and focus. I recently read a quote that summed up my feelings on the pose perfectly:"More than just a physical posture, Warrior II increases your ability to concentrate. As you hone your gaze, you direct your mind clearly and with intention. Distractions disappear and your energy becomes powerful and focused." - Yoga OutletSo let's walk through how to get into Warrior II (see below for an example of me in the pose):

• Come to a wide stance on your mat, with your feet 4 to 5 feet apart. Your heels should be lined up with each other.
• Turn your front toes to point to the top of your mat, and keep your back toes perpendicular to the back of your mat.
• Raise your arms to shoulder height so that your fingers are reaching actively toward the front and the back of the room.
• Bring a deep, 90 degree bend into the front knee. Take a quick look down at your front knee and make sure you can see your front, big toe. If you can't, shift your knee outward toward your pinky toe slightly.
• Check in with your torso to make sure you are not leaning over your front leg - your torso should be even on top of your hips.
• Bring your gaze over your front fingertips.

Once you've made your way into the pose, check in with your body to make sure you are fully engaged in the pose:

• Are you actively pressing down through the outer edge of your back foot?
• Is your back leg active and straight?
• Can you relax your shoulders down your back?
• Can you pull your belly in toward your spine to engage your torso more fully?
• Are your hips pointing toward the side of the room?
• Can you sink even lower into your front knee, while continuing to track your knee toward the outside of your front foot?

This pose requires focus and determination. Find your warrior, find your strength and purpose. A warrior with a purpose, has many stories to share and adventures that lay ahead.