PIGEON IS IMPORTANT

We begin in a lifted pigeon preparation, with the right shin across the mat and the legs staying active rather than sinking into flexibility. Matt cues us to pull the pelvis back by reaching strongly through the back heel, creating length and tone at the same time. From here, the twist becomes the priority. We flex the spine and rotate, placing the left elbow down while the right hand actively pushes the torso away from the front thigh. This push-and-reach dynamic creates space for rotation rather than collapsing into it. The left arm reaches to deepen the twist while the right hand provides resistance, keeping the body buoyant and supported. Although the stretch is deep, the strength in the legs keeps us organized. This phase establishes the rotational blueprint we’ll later need when gravity becomes part of the equation.

SIDE CROW IS VITAL

Before taking flight, we return to something familiar: Side Crow. Matt instructs us that any variation works, as long as the pelvis isn’t resting passively on the opposite elbow. Matt emphasizes lining the knee up outside the elbow so the load transfers cleanly through the arms. Whether squeezing a block between the shins, pulling a strap apart, or keeping one foot grounded, the goal is the same, which is to lean forward, grip the ground, and hold. This isn’t about how long we balance, but about imprinting the arm-balance mechanics that Flying Revolved Half Lotus depends on. Protraction, finger grip, and forward lean all get rehearsed here. Side Crow becomes the structural anchor of the pose, reminding us how rotation and balance coexist without one overpowering the other.

READY TO GO

When all the pieces come together, the transition feels deliberate rather than rushed. We move the knees slightly to create space for the elbow, place the hands wide, and lean forward and slightly sideways. One knee presses down as the other draws inward, creating opposition that stabilizes the lift. Matt demonstrates options here, reminding us that Flying Revolved Half Lotus isn’t about forcing elevation, it’s about honoring the setup. Whether we lift fully or hover with control, the work has already been done. The hips understand their role, the arms know how to support, and the spine rotates with clarity. At this point, the pose isn’t mysterious, it’s simply a conversation between familiar actions, organized with intention.

Matt finished off 2025 with strength in his Flying Hip Openers Immersion.  Did you miss it?  You can still register for all of the lifetime replays here.

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Article by Trish Curling

Video Extracted From: Flying Hip Openers Immersion