STEPS

The compass Pose is also known as Revolved Sundial Pose, which is the literal Sanskrit translation of the name of the pose. This is a deep pose which opens the hamstrings, hips, shoulders and chest. Because of the level of flexibility required for this pose, it falls into the intermediate category of yoga poses. The Compass Pose is one that can be performed gracefully to open up the sides while elongating the spine. Most Yoga teachers add this pose as a peak pose in their class plans. The Compass Pose requires equal parts strength and equal parts flexibility to master the pose.

Begin seated in Staff pose with legs stretched out and back long and shoulders open. Bring the left leg closer to the chest by hugging the left knee with both hands. Stay here for a few breaths and rotate the leg to open the hips as a preparation for the pose. Next step is to cradle the left leg, by bringing the left knee into the left elbow and holding the left ankle with the right hand. Breathe here for a few seconds and while cradling the leg and rocking to and fro. Next bring the left leg back to hook over the left shoulder. Fold the right leg in half seated cross-legged pose. Holding the left foot with the right hand, extend the left hand sideward by slightly bending your back. The final step is to hold firm the left foot with right hand and extend to straighten the left leg. Press into the left fingers as you add length to the extended right side of the body. Further straighten the left leg, while gazing upwards towards the right side.

To come out of the pose, release the straightened leg back over the knee. Bring the left hand to hug the left leg. Release the left leg back to Staff Pose.