Let us continue our discussion on the backward bending poses and focus on the pose called Dhanurasana – ??????? -(Bow Pose). In the final position, the pose resembles a bow, ready to shoot an arrow.

Step-by-step

Round one:

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In today’s post, we will continue our discussion on the backward bending poses and focus on the pose called Shalabhasana – ?????? -(Locust Pose). In the final position, the pose resembles the trunk of a locust.

Step-by-step

Round one – Ardha Shalabhasana (Half Locust Pose):

1. Lie flat on the abdomen with the hands under the thighs, palms facing upwards. Optionally, you may make a fist with the two hands, keeping the fists together with the elbows stretched straight and tucked in.

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In the previous posts, we talked about the seated forward-bending poses. With this issue, we will start discussing some of the backward bending poses which are done lying down on the abdomen. We will begin this discussion with Bhujangasana -????????? -(Cobra pose).

The word “bhujanga” in Sanskrit means a cobra or a snake/serpent. In its final position, the pose looks like a cobra with its hood raised and hence the name. In many traditions, the serpent represents the tremendous power latent within the individual. In tantra, it represents the “kundalini shakti” which lies dormant at the base of the spine in the form of a serpent coiled three and a half times. In Hindu mythology it is respected and honored as a sacred animal, symbolizing the individual subtle force, intuition and wisdom. The double looped mathematical symbol for infinity is derived from the ancient symbol of the snake with its tail in its mouth, and is an expression of the continuity and eternity of life. By the practice of bhujangasana, we can realize and express not only all of the specific qualities of the serpent, but also its divine essence.

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