Simhasana I and II - the lion

by Nick on Dec 18 2016
Table of contents

    Share

    Simhasana I and II - the lion Simhasana I and II - the lion
    Simhasana (Lion Pose) is a yoga pose for emotional balance and expressiveness, and is also called Simhasan or Simha Asana. The Lion Pose is one of the most popular asanas, even though it may seem a bit strange to some. This is because you may be required to make faces during this popular pose. However, if you overcome your initial shyness, Simhasana is a very effective pose with several positive effects. In addition, these loud movements will definitely clear your head. Simhasana is one of the 84 main asanas and is best performed after Paschimothanasana (Forward Bend) or Ardha Matsyendrasana (Twist Pose) . This yoga pose can be performed by anyone and is not particularly difficult. The most difficult thing about this pose is that you have to overcome your own fears.

    This is how the yoga exercise works in detail


    The lion pose is suitable for both beginners and experienced people. Wear comfortable clothing and ideally use a yoga mat . First, sit on your heels on the mat with your hands resting on your thighs. Next, take a deep breath. As you exhale, lean forward slightly and bring your head back slightly. Your palms should now be on the mat in front of you. Open your eyes and mouth wide and stick out your tongue as far as possible, as if you were trying to touch your chin. Next, direct your gaze upwards while keeping your spine straight. Focus your eyes on a point between your eyebrows. As you exhale, make a loud, strong roar, imitating a real lion. Now return to the seated position of Simhasana and repeat the yoga exercise a few more times. At first you might find this exercise a bit ridiculous, but over time you will definitely notice the positive effects that Simhasana brings.

    The positive effects of Simhasana on the body and mind


    If you practice this yoga exercise regularly, your body and mind can reap a number of benefits. The lion pose can promote relaxation, tighten your face, and thus prevent future wrinkles. The Simhasana yoga exercise can even significantly improve your voice and your ability to express yourself. The yoga exercise can definitely have an energizing effect, particularly on the Ajna chakra. In addition to the physical benefits, this exercise can also have mental benefits. For one thing, the yoga exercise helps to reliably release existing emotional tension, and for another, it can also boost your courage. Because you roar like a real lion during Simhasana, it has a very liberating effect and can also have a positive effect on your self-confidence.

    Notes and variations of Simhasana


    In Simhasana I, you must never forget that you are a true, fierce lion and should roar loudly. If you have to laugh during this yoga pose, just laugh and under no circumstances bite your tongue. During the first few exercises, you'll definitely feel a strange sensation, as if you have a gag in your mouth. This strange feeling will definitely disappear over time. If this pose is too easy or too embarrassing for you, and you don't want to roar, try a variation.
    The most popular variation is Simhasana II. This yoga exercise is a more difficult lion pose. Before attempting this variation, you should definitely be able to do the regular lion pose without any problems. First, get into the lotus position , raise your knees, and place your hands on the floor directly in front of you. Bend forward with your hands on the floor, making sure to keep your hips flat on the floor. Move your waist and the sides of your chest forward and upward. Hold this position for 20 to 30 seconds, then return to the starting position of Simhasana II.
    Image © netsign33 / 123rf.com