Utkatasana is the name of a powerful standing yoga asana that requires balance, stability and strength. The arms extend upward alongside the ears, while the knees bend as if sitting on an imaginary chair. In addition to its physical benefits, utkatasana promotes focus, acceptance and inner power.
The name comes from the Sanskrit, utkata, meaning “intense” or “powerful,” and asana, meaning “posture.” The common English name for utkatasana is chair pose. It is also sometimes called fierce pose, powerful pose or, in Bikram yoga, awkward pose.
Benefits
Utkatasanais a standing squat that engages the muscles in your buttocks, hips, and thighs. It also engages your core to stabilize you in the pose and works on developing your balance. It’s considered a functional exercise as you need strength and balance in performing everyday tasks, even for getting in and out of a real chair. It is also a warming pose, which can be helpful in winter.
Image Courtesy: YogaUonline
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