Urdhva Hastasana

Urdhva Hastasana is a standing yoga posture, also known as the upward salute or raised arms pose.

Overview

Urdhva Hastasana, meaning “upward hand posture,” is a standing asana where the arms are extended overhead with the palms facing each other. It is a simple but effective posture for lengthening the spine and opening the chest.

Method/Content

From Tadasana, the practitioner inhales and raises both arms overhead, keeping them parallel with the palms facing each other. The shoulders remain relaxed away from the ears, the chest lifts, and the gaze may follow the hands upward. The posture is held for 5 to 10 breaths.

Purpose/Benefits

Urdhva Hastasana lengthens the spine, stretches the sides of the body, and opens the chest and shoulders. It improves posture and breathing capacity. The posture is also said to energize the body and improve circulation.

Verification Notes

• A foundational standing posture in many yoga traditions
• Often practiced as part of Surya Namaskar sequences
• Can be practiced as a standalone stretch throughout the day