Arm Balances Hand-standing series
Maksikanagasana
Dragonfly pose
An arm balance of strength and balance with the hips in a deep twist.
FamilyArm Balances
LevelIntermediate (YCB Level 2)
AwarenessMuladhara chakra
Technique
- Stand straight.
- Place the right foot across, just above the left knee.
- Exhale, bend forward and place the back of the right upper arm on the left foot.
- Bend further and extend the left leg out towards the right side.
- Breathe normally and balance as long as comfortable.
- Come down, rest and practise on the other side.
Awareness
First on the coordination of the movement, the balance and the breath; gradually on Muladhara chakra.
What it gives
- Strengthens the arms, shoulders and upper back.
- Opens the hips and pelvis.
- Develops balance and concentration; tones the deep abdominal muscles.
Precautions
- Avoid with lower-back, hip, shoulder, wrist or neck problems, high blood pressure or heart disease. Not during pregnancy.
Learn it with Acharya Lokesh
Intermediate postures are safest when a teacher watches you. Book a free trial session at home in Delhi or online, or take the illustrated guide home.
Text from Acharya Lokesh's handbook Yogasana for Intermediates (Agastya Yoga School, 2022), edited for clarity. General information about a traditional practice, not medical advice: if you have a health condition, are pregnant or recovering from surgery, ask your doctor first.