How To Perform Crocodile (relaxation) Pose?

(July 2, 2010)

The Crocodile Yoga Pose gets its name from the Sanskrit Makarasana, where ‘makar’ means a ‘crocodile’, and ‘asana’ refers to a ‘yoga pose. This is a very easy and relaxing yoga pose, which is performed by stretching out face-forward on the floor. The Crocodile pose yoga provides stretching and relaxation after, and in between more strenuous and challenging yoga poses.

Step-by-step: If you wish to perform the Crocodile (relaxation) pose, follow this sequence.

Lie down on your stomach on the floor. Using a yoga mat may be useful. Keep your hands at your sides, while your chin and chest should touch the floor. Extend and stretch out your legs fully behind you in such a way that your toes point slightly outwards, while your heels are turned inwards. The tops of your feet should press into the ground.

Keeping your torso and lower back relaxed, bend both your hands from the elbow, and bring them toward your head. Bend the elbows further, place your palms below your cheeks, and rest your chin on the base of your hands.

Now raise your chest, shoulder and neck, using the elbows as support. Gradually move your elbows a little closer, until the insides of the forearms meet together, but do not allow your hands to press into your cheeks. Also take care that your palms do not push up your face.

Roll back the shoulders a little, and stretch your spine from the neck down to the tailbone. Stretch your legs too a little further, extending them from the hips. You may feel some strain on the backbone and neck. Remain conscious of your body, and do not put any unnecessary strain if you feel uncomfortable. Hold the pose only if you are feeling at ease and relaxed. Breathe evenly and rhythmically. You can keep your eyes closed, or gaze at a point that falls naturally in your line of vision.

Benefits: The Crocodile Pose helps to relax the mind and body, and thus helps control high blood pressure. It helps relieve muscle fatigue, and also proves beneficial to those who suffer from spinal pain or problems such as sciatica, scoliosis, slipped disc or low backaches. It aids better digestion by helping the body to get rid of flatulence. People with asthma and breathing problems, as well as those with genitor-urinary disorders, also benefit by practicing the Crocodile Pose Yoga.

Warning: Do not practice the Crocodile Pose in the second and thirds trimester of pregnancy. Also stop doing this pose, if you have any injury in your back or neck muscles.

Submitted by A on July 2, 2010 at 07:36

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