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Lion Pose
Also known as, Simhasana
About the pose
The word 'simha' is a Sanskrit term that means 'lion.' The Simhasana refers to a pose of a seated lion. In this yoga asana the body and the facial expressions resemble that of a lion. Simhasana is intended to invoke the great regal force in the practitioner. This yoga asana is primarily beneficial for your throat and chest.
How to perform the Lion Pose/ Simhasana?
1. Bend the legs from your knees and bring them to the backside.
2. Now sit on your heels. Your hips should be well seated on your hips. This position is also known as vajrasana.
3. The distance between both your knees should be at least six inches.
4. Place the right palm and the left palm on the right knee and left knee firmly.
5. Exhale and stretch your tongue out of the mouth as you continue top exhale.
6. The process of stretching the tongue out of the mouth should be in sync with the exhalation process. As soon as you have stretched your tongue, the exhaling should be complete.
7. Hold your breath.
8. Stretch your facial muscles and open your eyes wide. Your expressions should convey aggression.
9. Keep looking straight and stay in the pose for at least six to eight seconds.
10. Practice this exercise twice a day in the initial stage. Later on, you can take it up to as much as four times a day.
Benefits of performing the pose-
* It helps increase retention power and sharpens the memory.
* People suffering from stammering can benefit a great deal from this yoga asana.
* It increases the beauty and luster of the face.
* This yoga asana also helps a great deal with tonsillitis. It also helps people suffering from throat trouble or voice trouble.
* It is beneficial to the eyes, nose and the skin.
* Diseases of chest and abdomen can be cured with regular practicing of this asana.
* It also helps in promoting optimum health of the respiratory system.
* It removes nervous weakness and ensures longevity.
Precautions to be exercised
* People suffering from any kind of knee injury should take great care in flexing their knees. If you are suffering from any knee ailments you could practice this pose on a chair.
* One should always ensure that the hands are absolutely straight while performing this asana.
* Your chest should be absolutely erect. Avoid any bending down.
* Once you have taken the tongue inside, sit in the same position for at least a few seconds. Then continue to repeat this asana again.
Tip for beginners
If you find sitting with your knees folded on the ground difficult, you could use a soft base underneath. You could place a blanket under you.
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