Eight Angle Pose, or Astavakrasana, is named after the sage Astavakra, who was born with eight physical deformities, the name literally means âeight crookedâ or âeightâangledâ pose. Despite his challenges, he became a revered spiritual teacher. Eight-Angle pose is one of yogaâs most celebrated arm balances. Far more than an impressive physical feat, it encapsulates a rich tapestry of history, myth, and philosophy. At its heart, Astavakrasana symbolizes the triumph of inner wisdom over physical limitationsâa poetic testament to the ancient legend of Sage Astavakra. Here at the Vallarta Breeze Yoga Puerto Vallarta Yoga Studio we often practice this pose in the Hatha/Vinyasa blend class and the Fire and Ice class. It’s tricky at first but once your nervous system knows what to do, it becomes as natural as any other pose.
Below is an exhaustive, inâdepth article on the 8âangle pose (Astavakrasana) that weaves together its historical roots, technical intricacies, anatomical insights, symbolic depth, and its modern evolution in the yoga tradition. You will find a practice guide at the end of the article.
Although many of todayâs asanas were refined and popularized during the modern yoga renaissance of the 20th century, their names and underlying philosophies often reach back into Indiaâs ancient spiritual tradition.
Classical Textual Context: While early Hatha Yoga texts (such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Gheranda Samhita) do not list âAstavakrasanaâ by name, the tradition of naming poses after revered sages, deities, or mythological events was well established. The asana finds its cultural anchorage in the narrative of Sage Astavakraâa symbol whose story resonates with overcoming physical challenges.
20thâCentury Revival: In the modern era, yoga teachers like B.K.S. Iyengar and Pattabhi Jois integrated Astavakrasana into their sequences to challenge and inspire practitioners. Its appearance in texts like Light on Yoga contributed to its status as an advanced, yet deeply meaningful, pose.
Etymology and Numerology: The Sanskrit term âAstavakraâ combines:
Ashta (à€ à€·à„à€): Meaning âeight.â
Vakra (à€”à€à„à€°): Meaning âbentâ or âtwisted.â Although interpretations vary, one lens suggests that âeight anglesâ may represent either the eight points of contact during a full expression of the pose or reference the eightfold deformities of the legendary sage himselfâa reminder that imperfection can be a source of inner strength.
The Legend of Sage Astavakra
At the heart of the poseâs name is the ancient story of Sage Astavakra, whose life is celebrated in texts such as the Astavakra Gita. The narrative is as inspiring as the physical posture:
Mythical Origins: Born with eight deformities, Astavakra embodied physical challenges from the very beginning. Despiteâor perhaps because ofâhis physical âcrookedness,â he possessed unfathomable wisdom and spiritual insight.
Spiritual Dialogue: The Astavakra Gita records a conversation between Astavakra and King Janaka. This dialogue delves deep into the nature of self-realization, liberation, and the transcendence of physical forms. The sageâs life becomes a metaphor for overcoming external limitations through inner transformation.
Symbolism in the Asana: Astavakrasana, then, is not just an arm balance; it is a living metaphor. The twisted, seemingly precarious alignment of the body in the pose mirrors the sageâs own unconventional appearance and the profound realization that challengesâwhether physical or mentalâcan lead to unique modes of strength and enlightenment.
Anatomy and Technical Execution
Astavakrasana is an advanced arm balance that demands coordinated muscular strength, flexibility, and precision. It involves multiple body segments and can be broken down into several key technical components:
Musculature Involved
Region
Role
Benefits
Arms
Weight support and stabilization
Builds strength and endurance in the biceps, triceps, and forearms
Shoulders
Maintaining stability and balance during the twist
Increases shoulder mobility and strength
Core
Engaging the abdominal muscles to twist and balance the torso
Enhances abdominal strength and improves posture
Hips
Allowing for rotational movement and alignment adjustment
Promotes hip flexibility and opens the groin
Legs
Strenuous engagement for control and balance
Strengthens hamstrings, quadriceps, and adductors
Physical Characteristics of the Pose
Balance Points: Whereas many poses depend on symmetry, Astavakrasana intentionally creates asymmetry through its twist. The point of contactâprimarily the hands and the lower armârequires meticulous counterbalance.
Engagement Intensity: The blend of muscular strength and flexibility demanded in this pose is unparalleled. It requires not only a robust upper body but also an agile, responsive core to manage the forces of gravity and twist simultaneously.
Philosophical and Symbolic Dimensions
The symbolism woven into Astavakrasana runs as deep as its technical challenge:
Overcoming Limitations: By literally âtwistingâ the body into unconventional shapes, the pose serves as a metaphor for confronting and transcending adversity. Sage Astavakraâs life is a testament to the idea that physical limitations do not constrain the human spirit.
Embracing Imperfection: The eight angles represent the beautiful imperfection that exists in every human being. Much like Astavakra embraced his deformities and used them as a medium for wisdom, practitioners learn to embrace their own imperfections in the search for balance and self-acceptance.
Interconnectedness: The pose demonstrates how disparate parts of the body can operate in harmonious unity. This mirrors the yoga philosophy that all aspects of beingâphysical, mental, and spiritualâare interconnected and should be nurtured together.
Spiritual Allegory: In some interpretations, the very act of balancing on âcrookedâ points is an allegory for the spiritual journey: navigating through lifeâs twists and turns with resilience, creativity, and heart.
Modern Adaptations and Variations
Today, Astavakrasana is a fixture in various styles of modern yogaâfrom the linear, alignment-focused practices of Iyengar Yoga to the dynamic flows of Ashtanga Vinyasa.
Influential Teachers and Texts
B.K.S. Iyengar: In Light on Yoga, Iyengar details numerous arm balances, and though his focus is on alignment and precision, Astavakrasana stands out as a testament to strength and inner focus.
Pattabhi Jois and Ashtanga Vinyasa: Incorporating advanced transitions and intricate sequences, teachers like Jois encouraged students to view poses like Astavakrasana as milestones in the journey toward greater physical and mental flexibility.
Variations
Modified Astavakrasana: Beginners or those with limited upper body strength often practice simplified versions. In these iterations, adjustments (such as using a wall or repositioning the knees) enable practitioners to build the necessary strength and confidence gradually.
Progressive Arm Balances: More advanced practitioners may explore variations that deepen the twist or extend the hold, further challenging both the body and the mind. Each progression not only refines muscle memory and flexibility but also echoes the inner journey toward overcoming personal obstacles.
Contemporary Aesthetics
Integration in Flow Sequences: In creative vinyasa flows, Astavakrasana is often interwoven with other balancing poses to build a narrative of transformation.
Therapeutic Insights: Modern yoga therapy sometimes uses such poses to encourage body awareness and self-careâreminding practitioners that every âbendâ or âtwistâ in their life holds the potential for growth.
Safety and Alignment
Because Astavakrasana is an advanced pose, a mindful approach is crucial. Here are some essential considerations:
Warm-Up and Flexibility: Prioritize a thorough warm-up that emphasizes upper body strength, core stability, hip flexibility, and wrist conditioning. Preparatory poses such as plank, dolphin, and various seated twists are instrumental.
Alignment Check: â Keep the shoulders engaged and avoid collapsing the upper body. â Ensure the core is active to support the lumbar spine. â Maintain a slight gaze forward to help balance the twist and prevent overextension.
Use of Props and Modifications: Beginners should work with a yoga instructor and may incorporate propsâlike blocks or strapsâto gradually build familiarity with the alignment demands.
Respect for the Body: The transformative energy of Astavakrasana lies not only in its physical mastery but also in its reminder to honor oneâs own pace. Over time, as strength and flexibility grow, so does the capacity to embody the pose safely and joyfully.
Benefits of Eight Angle Pose (Astavakrasana)
Physical Benefits
Strengthens Upper Body: Builds strength in the wrists, arms, and shoulders.
Tones Core Muscles: Engages and tones the abdominal muscles.
Improves Balance: Enhances balance and coordination.
Increases Flexibility: Stretches the hamstrings, hips, and lower back.
Energetic Benefits
Boosts Confidence: Encourages a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-confidence in a big way!
Enhances Focus: Requires intense concentration, improving mental focus and clarity.
Energizes the Body: Stimulates the body’s energy flow, leaving you feeling invigorated, endorphin rush!
Contraindications
Wrist Injuries: Avoid if you have wrist pain or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Shoulder Issues: Not recommended for those with shoulder injuries or instability, let it heal first.
Lower Back Problems: Use caution if you have lower back issues, this involves a pretty deep and loaded twist.
Pregnancy: Not suitable during pregnancy due to the intense core engagement.
Practice Guide
1. Getting into Eight Angle Pose (Astavakrasana) – *We do it a little different in class
Starting Position: Sit with your legs extended in front of you.
Right Leg Placement: Bend your right knee and bring your right foot to the outside of your left hip.
Right Arm Under Right Leg: Thread your right arm under your right knee, placing your right hand on the floor beside your hip.
Left Leg Placement: Bend your left knee and cross your left ankle over your right ankle, squeezing your legs together.
2. Lifting Off into Eight Angle Pose (Astavakrasana)
Hand Placement: Place both hands on the floor, shoulder-width apart, fingers spread wide.
Engage Core: Engage your core muscles and lift your hips off the floor.
Extend Legs: Straighten your legs out to the right side, keeping them squeezed together and parallel to the floor.
Elbow Bend: Bend your elbows to lower your chest forward, maintaining balance and control.
3. Dristi (Gaze)
Forward Gaze: Focus your gaze slightly forward to help maintain balance.
4. Bandhas (Energy Locks)
Mula Bandha: Engage the root lock by contracting the pelvic floor muscles.
Uddiyana Bandha: Draw the lower abdomen in and up to support the core.
5. Mudras (Hand Gestures)
Hands are actively engaged in supporting the body.
6. Breathing
Steady Breath: Maintain a steady, even breath throughout Eight Angle pose, inhaling and exhaling through the nose.
7. Counter Pose
Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana): After releasing from Astavakrasana, extend your legs forward and fold over them to stretch the back and hamstrings.
8. Exiting Eight Angle Pose (Astavakrasana)
Lower Hips: Slowly lower your hips back to the floor.
Release Legs: Uncross your legs and extend them in front of you.
Shake Out: Shake out your legs to release any tension.
Pro Tips for Eight Angle Pose (Astavakrasana)
Warm-Up: Ensure your wrists, shoulders, and hips are well-warmed up before attempting this pose.
Use Props: If needed, use a block under your hands to help lift your hips higher.
Practice Progressions: Build strength and flexibility with preparatory poses like Plank, Chaturanga, and Boat Pose.
Stay Focused: Keep your mind focused and your breath steady to maintain balance and control.
Astavakrasana is more than just an impressive physical achievement; it is an invitation to explore transformation on multiple levels. Its historical rootsâtethered to the story of a wise, deformed sage who transcended visible imperfectionsâmirror the inner journey of every practitioner. Each twist and angle is a testament to resilience, self-acceptance, and the creative merging of body and spirit.
As you deepen your practice, consider the legacy behind Astavakrasana. Its eight angles may very well remind you that every bend, every twist, and every imperfection in life contributes to the unique, resilient, and ever-evolving shape of who you are. In mastering such a pose, one gradually learns that the journey is as significant as the destination.
Continue your growth with the Vallarta Breeze Yoga Puerto Vallarta Yoga Studio!
Whether you’re looking to dive deeper into the physical practice of yoga, The Vedas, Upanishads, Yoga Sutras, or would like to explore our blog, we have a wealth of information available for you! Better yet, join us here in the Vallarta Breeze Yoga Puerto Vallarta Yoga studio, or practice with us online! we’re excited to continue this journey with you. See you on the mat!
I encourage you to grab a personal resistance training time slot! My husband and I just gave up a lovely Monday/Wednesday/Friday 12:30 slot as we are heading back north. We have been training as a couple for almost 10 years now (we're 64) - always with a personal trainer to guide and support us and hold us accountable. We know that without a commitment on the calendar, we just would find some kind of excuse not to exercise. The time we spent with Jai has been top notch and we've increased our strength in a short time. We received personal and focused attention and the facility is amazing. We can't speak highly enough of Jai's personality, certifications, knowledge, positiveness and encouragement! He's a data geek like us - keeping impeccable records of our workouts in addition to recommending stretches and techniques to improve our form. Do yourselves a favor - commit to your health with Jai! The walk up the stairs to his studio is your warm-up, trust me, you can do it and the result is so worth it.
Was in Puerto Vallarta for vacation and wanted to do some yoga while there. This class was fantastic-they do a lovely job of catering to all levels of experience and there are beautiful views from the studio. Will definitely come again next time I am in Puerto Vallarta!
I attended a yoga class and a circuit training session at Vallarta Breeze Yoga last week, and it was such a fantastic experience. Jai, the owner, was incredibly personable, kind, and professional. During the yoga class, he offered gentle, thoughtful corrections that truly helped improve proper body alignment â always so supportive throughout the practice.
The studio itself feels like a hidden gem. Itâs just a short walk up the mountain, surrounded by lush tropical greenery, with birds softly chanting in the background. The mountain views are stunning, and the whole atmosphere feels peaceful, grounding, and energizing all at once. Thereâs even a cozy little coffee station waiting for you, which adds the perfect touch before or after class.
Both the yoga and circuit training sessions were fun, motivating, and accessible for all levels. I left feeling stronger, more flexible, and genuinely uplifted. I highly recommend Vallarta Breeze Yoga to anyone looking to build strength, increase flexibility, and enjoy a warm, nature-filled environment while doing it. Itâs a wonderful place run by wonderful people, and Iâm already looking forward to going back.
It had been year's since my last yoga class and Jai made it the most incredible experience! It has been over a year and I am more excited to attend today than when I started! The space is peaceful and inviting. Jai strives to ensure everyone feels supported and encouraged!
I have been doing virtual yoga with Jai and Manuel for 6 years started during the pandemic. I love these classes and these two instructors. I have the monthly unlimited pass so I start every morning with yoga. The best part of the day. Not only do we have a usual must have routine we hit the areas that we are trying to improve. If I canât make a scheduled time I always have a library of videos to keep me on track from strength to breathing to meditation. On my most recent bone scan my density increased and I firmly believe it is my consistent yoga practice and the ability to add weights to certain poses or movements. Jai and Manuel encourage you to push yourself to improve. The amount of knowledge they have is unbelievable and everyday they share it with us everyday. I am so lucky to have been introduced to VBY and Jai and Manuel Everyone needs to experience these classes 💕💪🦵🧘
An absolutely beautiful studio! Jai and Victor were SO welcoming and great teachers. Iâm new to yoga and it was a great learning experience. Will definitely be back!
Had the best time in a private yoga session with Jai! Amazing studio with a great environment. Super serene custom practice and a great addition our vacation. Highly recommend.
Response from the owner 23:23 04 Jul 25
I'm so glad you enjoyed your visit đ€- It was a pleasure to meet you both. Sending good vibes to your budding family đ
I love this fabulous yoga studio that is surrounded by beautiful tropical plants. Jai and Manuel are very good yoga teachers. This is one classy yoga studio that is a short walk from the romantic zone in beautiful Puerto Vallarta! I highly recommend to come for a class and see for yourself!!
Response from the owner 18:16 12 Nov 24
Thank you, Monika! We couldn't be more delighted to see you becoming such an integral part of our studio community! đ
I decided to take an 8 am âyoga for any-bodyâ and absolutely loved it! The studio itself is stunning and clean. Jai is such a knowledgeable and kind instructor.
Response from the owner 20:43 20 May 25
Thank you, Rachel! I'm so glad to hear you enjoyed your visit with us at Vallarta Breeze Yoga - Until next time đ
Vallarta Breeze Yoga is a true gem in Puerto Vallarta. My husband (a total beginner) and I (returning after a long break) attended their Yoga For All class and had an incredible experience. Jai, the instructor, was so intuitive and attentiveâhe gave us both personalized adjustments and made sure we felt safe and supported. His husband, Victor Manuel, is also a certified teacher and offered extra guidance throughout class. It was like having two instructors for a small, welcoming group.
The studio is absolutely beautifulâopen-air, surrounded by tropical plants, and surprisingly comfortable thanks to the breeze and fans. I was concerned about the heat and humidity, but it was perfect. They provide mats and all the props you need, so thereâs no need to bring anything. After just a few sessions, I already felt more flexible and reconnected with my body. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful, professional yoga experience in PV!
Response from the owner 00:22 09 May 25
Thank you, Kris!! Its really lovely having you and Javi in the studio. Looking forward to your return! đ
Truly my favourite spot in PV! Jai & Manuel are so welcoming and incredible teachers. I always leave there feeling so good! Itâs my first stop when I arrive. I canât wait to go back ❤️
Response from the owner 18:21 26 Apr 25
Thank you, Sarah! Its always a pleasure to have you here. Until next time đ
What a lovely yoga studio and experience. Jai was so kind and knowledgeable, I wish my vacation here in PV was longer so I could take more classes. I cannot wait to return. Thank you for a wonderful class.
What a lovely space - outdoors with nice roof - where you can practice yoga among birds, plants, wind chimes, and a lovely breeze (hence the name). I took numerous classes with Jai and each one was great, a nice variety of yoga poses were taught- always with modifications to personalize your experience. Jai is very talented and a great teacher - I learned many small optimizations of poses that I had been doing for decades! Absolutely the best!
Response from the owner 19:45 10 Apr 25
Thank you so very much for your feedback and kind words. Its students like you that make the effort worth while đ Thank You, Truly. đ
I canât say enough about Vallarta Breeze Yoga in PV. Yoga with Jai and Manuel in their beautiful space was simply the best. Jai takes the time to breakdown poses so you learn correctly and build confidence in yourself and your practice. I plan on attending yoga at their studio everyday next time I am in PV. Also love the option of virtual classes. Highly recommend.
Response from the owner 15:22 08 Apr 25
Thank you, Karen! Your feedback means a lot to us đ - See you next season!
A Deeply Transformative One-on-One Yoga Teacher Training with Jai
My one-on-one yoga teacher training with Jai at Vallarta Breeze was an unforgettable, life-changing experience. From the very first session, it was clear that this was not just about learning to teach yogaâit was about deepening my own practice, understanding myself on a deeper level, and embracing yoga as a way of life.
Jai is an incredible teacher. His approach is intuitive, insightful, and deeply rooted in yogic philosophy and tradition. Because this was a private training, every lesson was tailored specifically to meâmy strengths, challenges, and goals. This personalized attention allowed me to refine my asana practice, improve my alignment, and develop a teaching style that felt authentic to me.
One of the most valuable aspects of this training was the space it created for self-discovery. The one-on-one format meant I could ask questions freely, receive immediate feedback, and move at a pace that suited my learning style. Jaiâs guidance extended beyond the physical practiceâour conversations about yoga philosophy, breathwork, and the deeper layers of yoga were truly transformative.
The setting at Vallarta Breeze was absolutely breathtaking. Nestled in the mountains, the open-air studio allowed me to fully connect with nature while immersing myself in the practice. Staying onsite in the Zen Pods was a game-changerâsuper comfortable and incredibly convenient, especially with the long training days. Having a peaceful place to rest and recharge made all the difference in my ability to stay present and absorb everything.
This training was not just about earning a certificationâit was about stepping into a new version of myself. I left with a stronger practice, a deeper connection to yoga, and the confidence to share this knowledge with others.
If youâre looking for a truly personalized and profound yoga teacher training experience, I highly recommend working with Jai. His wisdom, patience, and genuine passion for yoga make this an experience that will stay with you forever.
At the top of a long set of stairs is a hidden gem of a yoga studio, and it's worth the climb! Jai is a friendly knowledgeable instructor, very capable of leading a class of many abilities. Starting each day with a challenging yet relaxing class was an amazing addition to my holiday in Puerto Vallarta. I am determined to be back soon. Thanks, Jai! Great classes, made that much better in a beautiful studio!
How lucky am I. I recently attended an aerial yoga class (first time) and it was absolutely phenomenal! The instructors Jai and Victor Manual from the moment I walked in, the vibe was warm, safe, and incredibly welcoming. The space itself was immaculate, with a clean and serene atmosphere that immediately put me at ease. There was an area to chill, have a tea and enjoy the outstanding views.
The instructors were outstandingâclear and precise with their cues, making even the more challenging moves feel accessible and safe. They were able mix the different levels by reading the room. Their guidance was supportive and encouraging, allowing everyone in the class to move at their own pace while building confidence in the silks.
The studio setup was thoughtfully designed, with plenty of space to move freely and feel comfortable. The class struck the perfect balance between a rejuvenating flow and an exciting challenge, leaving me feeling both energized and deeply relaxed. I am going back tomorrow to try the yoga mat class and I look forward to continuing my aerial yoga journey. Thank you 🙏
Wonderful studio! Offer amazing virtual online courses and in studio! Amazing instructors that coach and guide through every sessions. Run donât walk to Vallarta Breeze Yoga on line or in person. You wonât regret this wonderful experience .
I was struggling with burn out and reached out to Jai for some private 1:1 yoga lessons.
Jai immediately replied and offered to help.
In just three sessions, Jai reminded me how happy and safe I can feel in my own body - something I havenât felt for years. And desperately needed.
I wish I could have stayed in PV longer to continue our work, but luckily there are virtual classes I can attend.
Some things to note:
Jai is a killer combination of extremely professional, knowledgeable, empathetic and easy going.
He really cares about your goals but cultivates fun and easiness in the sessions.
The studio space itself is incredible. Everything is built to a high standard and then maintained beautifully. It's spacious, clean, and calm with wonderful views of the mountains and a constant calming breeze.
You're surrounded by birdsong, plants, lush vegetation, and even some friendly local cats and dogs.
The best gear. The mats, blankets, blocks and other yoga gear were in great condition and laid out ready to start each session.
Fairly priced. Jai never made me feel rushed and was extremely generous with his time. There were discounts for longer bookings and the prices were really reasonable.
One final note, there are some steps to get up to the place so if you have accessibility needs you will need to check in first to see how you can be accommodated.
Jai, thank you for the gift and time you gave me.
I look forward to seeing you again on my return to PV.
Jai is an amazing teacher. His kind and humble demeanor combines the perfect balance between acceptance of my current ability and encouragement to push myself towards a more healthy self. He made the first week very comfortable as I learn. I highly recommend his yoga class
Manuel and Jai are awesome and great teachers. Loved what they have done to the space. Itâs a hidden gem of a place. Be sure to hit it up. They were nice to show me towards a hidden trail to the mirador on the hilltop which was amazing. I am glad I went there. Will definitely visit again
Visited PV and Vallarta Breeze Yoga for my first time this March. What a wonderful experience. First we showed up an hour early by accident (time zone!) and was welcomed with a grand tour of the studio. Itâs amazing, so beautiful and welcoming. You really have to go there to see it. Will definitely come back next time we come back to PV.
If you are looking for a magical, yoga experience definitely check out Vallarta Breeze Yoga Studio in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. They run a very elegant facility high above the hussel and bussel of town. Owners Victor Manuel & Jai couldn't be more welcoming. Below is a photo of the group of yogis I shared a very creative Eclipse Yoga Class with yesterday led by Jai.
This has quickly become not only my favorite yoga studio in Puerto Vallarta, but also, my favorite in the world. Both Jai and Manuel are kind and patient teachers with a wealth of knowledge and make each class very unique and special. The space is off the beaten path and is so peaceful and utterly perfect. I highly recommend taking classes when in PV, or virtually with them when youâre not lucky enough to practice here in paradise. You wonât regret it.