Five Pointed Star Pose

In the Utthita Tadasana (five-pointed star pose), the body is arranged to resemble a star with the arms extended shoulder-width apart, the legs spread apart, and the head straight on the tailbone as if the body were perfectly woven into a string. The body's chakras are all greatly balanced by it. Yoga instructors can use this pose for element yoga as the prana flows like fluid inside, creating harmony with the cosmos and bringing out the shining star aura in the practitioner. Dancers and gymnasts can benefit from this pose because it promotes body balance. Since different five-pointed star poses can be created from this pose, it is regarded as a base pose. The five pointed star activates Swadhisthana chakra and Mooladhara chakra. 

Steps to do Five Pointed Star Pose / Utthita Tadasana

• Stand on the side of the mat in Tadasana. Now take a wide gap between the feet by stretching the legs.
• Make sure your toes are pointing sideways. Inhale, stretch the hands over the head, exhale, bending the knee keeping the thighs parallel to the mat.
• Try bending the elbows bringing them in line with shoulders.
• Keep breathing while holding the pose. Don’t strain the neck.
• Inhale, slowly come up to the center. Exhale & relax the hands, bring the legs together.

Tips for beginners

• To maintain better balance, start your practice with wall support. 
• Prepare your body by proper warm ups. 

Benefits

• This pose opens and energises the body.
• Opens chest and shoulders.
• Improves the blood circulation and respiration.

Watch out for

• Avoid practicing this pose if you have injury in legs, neck, arms and shoulders.
• If you have lower back problems then perform according to your flexibility, capacity and comfort level.
• High or Low BP patients avoid this pose.

Variations

• Place the hands on the hips for a better variation.
• Using a yoga strap will add intensity.