Standing Asana · Elementary (Level 2) · Catalog #800389

Virabhadrasana A and B Flow Virabhadrasana (Ashtanga)

The paired warrior sequence of the Ashtanga series moving directly from the first to the second.

Practice Virabhadrasana A and B Flow (Virabhadrasana (Ashtanga)) with Illustrated Cues & Breath Timer Open this posture in Ayurveda & Asana Yoga on iPhone & iPad to build custom dosha sequences and track MET energy burn.
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Virabhadrasana A and B Flow (Virabhadrasana (Ashtanga)) — Standing Yoga Posture Illustration

Virabhadrasana A and B Flow (Virabhadrasana (Ashtanga)) — Standing posture targeting Quads, Glutes, Shoulders · Even ujjayi breath · Varies drishti.

Vāta: Pacifies (-1) Pitta: Mildly Increases (+1) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Virabhadrasana (Ashtanga)
Posture Family
Standing
Difficulty
Elementary (Level 2)
Recommended Hold
60 seconds
Breath Pattern
Even ujjayi
Drishti (Gaze)
Varies
Target Muscles
Quads, Glutes, Shoulders
Energy Expenditure
4.2 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Virabhadrasana A and B Flow

Virabhadrasana A and B Flow (Virabhadrasana (Ashtanga)) belongs to the Standing posture family and engages the Quads, Glutes, Shoulders at an intensity of approximately 4.2 METs. The paired warrior sequence of the Ashtanga series moving directly from the first to the second.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain Even ujjayi throughout the 60-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Varies to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Quads, Glutes, Shoulders.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 8 years (96 months).

Ayurvedic Dosha Profile (Vāta, Pitta & Kapha)

In Ayurvedic asana sequencing (Dosha Provenance: modern-synthesis), every posture shifts Vata, Pitta, and Kapha according to its mechanical compression, heat generation, and grounding stability:

  • Vāta Effect: Pacifies (-1) — pair with slow nasal breathing and unhurried transitions to prevent excess mobility or dryness.
  • Pitta Effect: Mildly Increases (+1) — keep the jaw, temples, and abdomen soft when holding for 60 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Pacifies (-1) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

  • Knee injury

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