What are the key steps to master Eka Pada Koundinyasana 2?

Eka Pada Koundinyasana II is a leg-over-the-shoulder arm balance that becomes manageable when broken into simpler components. The key action requires the inner knee and inner thigh to connect to the outer upper arm without sliding off. Preparations include Lizard Pose, where the shoulder comes under the thigh and the inner knee presses into the shoulder while elbows bend and the chest moves forward. Extended Side Angle with the arm inside the leg teaches the same connection by pressing the knee into the arm and hugging the leg. Triangle and Half Moon teach leg direction through heel reach, ball-of-foot extension, strong front-leg stabilization, and a back leg reaching strongly behind. Arm mechanics rely on chaturanga actions: elbows bend straight back, upper arms hug in, and the chest pulls forward.

"Eka Pada Koundinyasana II is a leg-over-the-shoulder arm balance. So right away, the key action is needed: The inner knee and inner thigh need to connect to the outer upper arm. Not rest there. Not slide off. Connect and stay connected. Let's look at all the components necessary to master Eka Pada Koundinyasana 2."

"Lizard is where this pose starts to feel possible. How to: From a low lunge with the hands inside the front foot Walk the foot a little wider Lower your torso Start to bring the shoulder under the thigh Press the inner knee into the shoulder Bend the elbows and pull the chest forward Keep the connection active"

"Extended Side Angle (Arm Inside the Leg): How to: Arm inside the front leg Press the knee into the arm Pull the chest forward Hug the leg in Same action, slightly different shape."

"The Arms: Chaturanga All Day This is where the pose either holds... or collapses. After all it is an arm balance. How to: Elbows bend straight back Upper arms hug in Chest pulls forward You're basically h"

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