I always think of warrior 2 as the poster child of yoga asanas. It's commonly seen on yoga-related advertisements, and you can even make your Bitmoji do it!
But if you've ever wondered if you're really doing it right, here is my breakdown of the pose as I would teach it in a class. And remember that it's not really a matter of right and wrong, it's a matter of keeping your body safe.
These cues are for warrior 2 on the right side. For the left side, just reverse what this says.
- Point your right toes forward to the top of your mat.
- Point your left toes to the left so that your right heel bisects the inner arch of your left foot.
- Stack your right knee over your left ankle at a 90-degree angle.
- Straighten your left leg, but keep a softness so you don't lock out your knee.
- Square your hips to the long edge of your mat, facing the left.
- Align your shoulders directly over your hips, also facing the left.
- Reach your fingertips out in opposite directions with your palms facing down.
- Relax your shoulders down away from your ears.
- Look out over your right hand to the front.
- Relax your jaw.
- Breathe deeply.
Alternate Option: If your shoulders feel tired, you can flip your palms up to the ceiling to release some tension.
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