Eka Pada Utkatasana
Definition - What does Eka Pada Utkatasana mean?
Eka pada utkatasana is a standing yoga asana that opens the hips and improves balance. As with other one-legged balance poses, it helps to cultivate an alertness and sense of focus, as well as calms the mind.
Its name comes from the Sanskrit, eka, which means "once"; pada, meaning “foot”; utkata, meaning “fierce”; and asana, which means "posture" or "seat.”
Eka pada utkatasana may also be known by its English name as standing figure four pose.
Yogapedia explains Eka Pada Utkatasana
The mental concentration that is required to hold eka pada utkatasana is what also helps to clear the mind of unwanted thoughts, bringing greater peace and clarity. It is said that when balance is achieved, the body is in alignment with gravity, which also enhances feelings of equilibrium and equanimity.
Eka pada utkatasana is the foundation and preparatory pose for eka pada galavasana, a more challenging arm balance that is easier to perform after first experiencing the hip opening and balance cultivated in eka pada utkatasana.
As a hip-opening pose, eka pada utkatasana is closely associated with the svadisthana (sacral chakra). Postures that stimulate this area are believed to enhance creativity, pleasure and sensuality.
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