Yogidex

Teacher Training Companion

HomePosesPhilosophyAnatomyPracticeGlossary
HomePosesPhilosophyAnatomyPracticeGlossary
All Poses

Natarajasana (Reclined)

Reclined Pigeon Pose (Figure Four)

Reclined Pigeon Pose (Figure Four)
beginnerSupine/Hip Opener

Muscle Groups

GlutesPiriformisExternal hip rotators

A supine hip opener where one ankle crosses over the opposite knee, creating a figure-four shape to stretch the outer hip.

Alignment Cues

  • 1.Lie supine with both knees bent
  • 2.Cross one ankle over the opposite knee
  • 3.Thread the hands through to hold the bottom thigh or shin
  • 4.Gently draw the legs toward the chest
  • 5.Keep the crossed foot flexed to protect the knee

Benefits

  • +Stretches the outer hips and glutes
  • +Relieves lower back tension
  • +Opens the piriformis
  • +Accessible alternative to Pigeon Pose

Muscle Groups

GlutesPiriformisExternal hip rotators

Contraindications

  • Knee injury
  • Sacroiliac joint issues