Virabhadrasana II (Warrior II) | Ashtanga Yoga Dubai
Ashtanga Yoga Dubai

Yoga Chikitsa · Primary · Standing Sequence

Virabhadrasana II

Warrior II

Virabhadrasana II — Warrior II

What it is

Virabhadrasana II, or warrior II, closes the Primary standing sequence before the practice moves on to the seated poses.

What it looks like

From warrior I, the hips and chest open to the side. The front knee stays bent, and the arms extend out to a T at shoulder height. The gaze goes over the front hand. Both sides are practised.

Why it is practised

It is a strong, steady standing pose that works the legs and asks for an even, open posture and calm breathing.

What to pay attention to

Keep the front knee tracking over the ankle and the back leg firm. Keep the torso upright, centred between the legs, rather than leaning forward. Let the shoulders stay soft.

Who it suits

It suits most practitioners, including beginners. In Mysore-style practice a teacher shows you suitable variations as you learn — you can work on this in private sessions.

See the full Primary Series.

Open the hips, arms to a T. Gaze over the front hand.

Both sides.

Practise this Primary pose in a Mysore-style room, or in a private session in Dubai or online.

See session formats, upcoming dates and the shala.