Vinyala

Pose sheet

Supine Upward-Facing Forward Bend II

Ūrdhva Mukha Paścimottānāsana IIऊर्ध्वमुखपश्चिमोत्तानासन II

Lying on your back, bring straight, joined legs toward your head, holding the soles.

Open this pose in the 3D body

Steps

Support

Back supported as much as possible; pelvis close to the floor.

Enter

  1. Lie on your back, legs together and arms overhead.
  2. Exhale and slowly lift your legs toward your head.
  3. Interlace your fingers around the soles; raise your legs.
  4. With your back supported, take three breaths.
  5. Exhale; widen your elbows and bring your legs toward your chin.

Hold

  1. Keep your legs together and your knees straight.
  2. Support your back as much as possible; keep your pelvis low.
  3. Bring your chin toward your knees within your available range.

Exit

  1. Exhale and return your legs toward vertical.
  2. Inhale, release your grip, and lower your legs.
  3. Rest on your back.
Breathing
Exhale when drawing the legs closer; breathe evenly while holding.
Gaze
You may gently close your eyes.
Duration
30–60 seconds.

Adapt

Adaptations

  • StrapLoop it around your soles to replace the direct hand grip.
  • Reduced rangeKeep your legs more vertical, with your back supported.

Variations

  • I: seated balance with the legs raised.
  • Big-toe hold.
  • Wall ropes: folded body suspended from ropes.

Signals of effort

  • Deep flexion of both hips with straight knees.
  • Legs toward the head and torso close to the thighs.
  • Sustained foot hold with both arms.