I have attended over 100 classes and am excited to see progress in some poses I never thought I would be able to do. However, with shortish arms, tight shoulders, and an ample bosom, I cannot grab my foot in standing head to knee preparation. Thus, I am doing A LOT of standing wind relieving. When practicing at home on a day I could not make it in to the studio, I grabbed a strap to "elongate" my arms and help my body feel the posture I'm aiming for. Would using a strap in class be an appropriate modification as I work toward mastering this pose? Thanks!

My answer for this would have to be "it depends". Take a teacher you have a lot of experience with aside after class and show them your posture. I can say this, most of my students in your situation required a LOT of strong standing wind relieving too, but eventually the leg was able to lift high enough to cup the foot and that's when they began kicking out. Most likely this is what your situation will also be like. However, we all have diferent bodies. In situations like this it is good to take your teacher aside and ask for some private time

PS I was in strong standing wind relieving for 100 classes as well. I am at 800 now and have been able to do the full pose for some time now. Stay with it!

Thanks, Elizabeth It does make me feel better to know that even after 100 classes I should not be "expected" to be able to cup my foot. Sometimes I feel like I am "behind" even though I know that yoga is not a competition and that each body is different. I appreciate your insights.