Sleeping Tortoise Pose

Supta Kurmasana

Sleeping Tortoise Pose binds the ankles behind the head and clasps the hands behind the back, folding the body into a deep compact shape. It is among the most demanding postures of the Primary Series, requiring open hips, hamstrings, and shoulders together. The legs come behind the head one at a time with patience.

Alignment cues

• Work each leg behind the shoulder, then behind the head
• Cross the ankles behind the head
• Bind the hands behind the back and rest the forehead down

Benefits

• Intensely opens the hips, hamstrings, and shoulders
• Builds deep flexibility and surrender in the fold
• Quiets the mind

Modifications

• Keep the legs on top of the shoulders rather than crossing the ankles
• Skip the bind and rest the hands on the floor