Gherandasana II (Pose Dedicated to the Sage, Gheranda, II) registers as 46* on BKS Iyengar’s 60* scale of difficulty in Light on Yoga.
As if Gherandasana I wasn’t mind-boggling enough, Gherandasana II takes it one step further. One side of your body is in Padangusthasana Dhanurasana while the other side is in Baddha Padmasana.
Your first question might be, “How on earth do you begin to get into this pose?!” A fair question, indeed! Start in a seated position and bring your right leg into Padmasana. Then, lie on your back and roll over onto your belly. Now reach back with your right arm for your right toes. Then, bend your left knee and grab your left foot. If Padangusthasana Dhanurasana is in your practice, you’ll rotate your left elbow so that it’s facing outward. If you’re more comfortable in Dhanurasana, take the typical Dhanurasana hand placement.
Be careful working on this pose! Only when you feel comfortable in Baddha Padmasana with your belly on the floor should you begin taking the next step into the backbend. And, then, of course, honor your edge exploring the Padangusthasana Dhanurasana side. This pose is complex and advanced, so exercise your best judgment!
Any other yogis out there that have tried this pose and have tips to offer?
