Yogidex

Teacher Training Companion

HomePosesPhilosophyAnatomyPracticeGlossary
HomePosesPhilosophyAnatomyPracticeGlossary
All Poses

Kurmasana

Tortoise Pose

Tortoise Pose
advancedSeated/Forward Fold

Muscle Groups

HamstringsSpinal extensorsShouldersAdductors

A deep seated forward fold where the arms extend under the bent legs, bringing the chest to the floor.

Alignment Cues

  • 1.Sit with knees bent and feet wider than shoulder-width
  • 2.Lean forward and thread the arms under the knees
  • 3.Extend the legs out and straighten them
  • 4.Lower the chest toward the floor
  • 5.Keep the arms extending out to the sides

Benefits

  • +Stretches the spine, hamstrings, and shoulders
  • +Calms the nervous system
  • +Massages the abdominal organs
  • +Promotes introspection

Muscle Groups

HamstringsSpinal extensorsShouldersAdductors

Contraindications

  • Back injury
  • Shoulder injury
  • Pregnancy