Asana #5: Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)

After the Tadasana (Mountain pose), Katichakrasana (Standing Spinal Twist), Trikonasana (Triangle pose) and Ashvasthasana, this is the fifth asana in our selected progression.

Ever wondered why Shiva has a cobra around his neck? It is because the cobra has a very high level of perception and represents stillness. Practising lying like a serpent in Bhujangasana, our stillness and perception heightens.

How it’s done

Lie down on your stomach and keep both hands under the shoulders. Slowly inhale and raise the body upto the waist in such a manner that the body takes the shape of a snake. The stomach should be raised until the point of the navel.

The video below provides a good demonstration:

Interesting asana facts

• Makes the spinal cord flexible and alleviates backache
• Improves and deepens breathing
• Tones the ovaries and uterus, and helps in menstrual and gynaecological disorders
• Simulates appetite
• Alleviates constipation
• Beneficial for all abdominal organs, especially the liver and kidneys

Read also: Yoga Day Countdown Day #7: Ashvasthasana

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