Wheel (Chakrasana)
Pose Overview
| Common Name | Wheel |
| Traditional Sanskrit Name | Chakrasana |
| Sanskrit Name Pronunciation | chuhk-RAHS-ah-nuh |
| Pose Difficulty | Advanced |
| Drishti
Drishti is the gaze or visual focus point during yoga poses.
Learn more about Drishti |
Hands or floor between the hands |
Wheel, or Chakrasana in Sanskrit, is a yoga pose that is said to be beneficial for stretching out the back, chest, and legs. The name of the pose comes from the fact that it resembles a wheel, with the body arched and the arms and legs extended. The pose is said to be helpful for increasing flexibility and strength in the back, chest, and legs, and for promoting a sense of balance and focus. It is also said to be beneficial for relieving stress and anxiety, and for promoting a sense of inner peace.
Benefits of Wheel
strengthens the arms, wrists, legs, and core; opens the chest and lungs; improves balance and coordination
How to Enter Wheel
Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Place your hands on the floor beside your ears, fingers pointing toward your shoulders. Press into your hands and feet to lift your hips and chest off the floor, coming into a bridge pose. Keep your arms and legs active, and press the top of your head and your feet into the floor.
How to Exit Wheel
Lower your hips and chest back to the floor, one vertebrae at a time.
Common Wheel Modifications & Variations
Place a block under your sacrum to help support your lower back Use a strap to help bind your hands Place your feet on a wall to help with balance
Common Mistakes with Wheel
Not engaging the core or legs enough Not keeping the neck and head in alignment with the rest of the spine Not keeping the arms and hands active
Safety Guidance
It is important to have proper alignment and engage the core, legs and arms for safety. People with wrist or shoulder injury should avoid this pose or practice with caution.
