Kurmasana: Critical Elements

Step 1: From Dandasana, spread the legs out as wide as comfortable.

Step 2: Bend both of the knees and slide the arms under the knees. Rock back and forth to slide the arms further under the legs and to bring the arms behind your back with the palms facing down.

Step 3: Begin to straighten the legs, pressing out through the heels, using the legs to pull the shoulders down to the floor. Let the head hang, or bring the chin or forehead to the floor. You are right in the posture when your knees come to lie on top of your shoulders.

Step 4: Breathe and hold for 3-8 breaths.

Step 5: To release, slowly bend the knees and rock the hips to gently slide the arms from under the legs.