Sanskrit Name and Meaning (oord-vah hahs-TAHS-anna) urdhva= raised (or upward) hasta= hand How to Step 1: Stand in Tadasana with your arms by your sides, palms facing forward. Step 2: Root down into all four corners of your feet. With an inhale, bring your arms out to the sides and up toward the ceiling. Step 3: If you have tight shoulders, keep your arms parallel to each other and turn your pinkies in towards each other. If possible without hunching your shoulders, bring your hands together. Step 4: Fully extend your elbows, and if comfortable for your neck, gaze up at your hands. Step 5: Bring your front ribs down toward your pelvis, and lengthen your tail bone toward the floor. Hold for a few breaths.
Benefits
Gently stretches the stomach, shoulders and armpits
Helps relieve mild anxiety
Can improve digestion
Cautions
Avoid raising your arms in this pose if you have shoulder or neck injuries.