In Sanskrit, “Bhujanga” means snake and “Asana” means pose; that’s why this yoga pose is referred to as the ‘Cobra Pose’. This pose mimics the posture of a cobra that has its hood raised. It is the eighth pose in the 12 poses of the Surya Namaskar or Sun Salutation yoga routine.
Bhujangasana or Cobra pose benefits the complete digestive system greatly.
How to do Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
Step 1: Start by lying on your stomach and resting your forehead on the floor.
Step 2: Keep your feet together and your toes touching the ground. Place your hands at shoulder level and palms on the floor
Step 3: As you inhale lift your head, chest and abdomen and make sure that you keep the navel on the floor.
Step 4: Hold this posture for 5 breaths
Step 5: As you exhale, slowly come down and rest with your hands below your head.
How to deepen this yoga stretch?
As you inhale, make a gentle effort to push the chest forward; as you exhale, make a gentle effort to push the navel down. Tuck the toes under. Ensure you’re stretching just as much as you can; do not force your body.
Uses of Bhujangasana (Cobra pose):
- This posture strengthens and relaxes the entire back by harmonizing the energy flow in both its superficial and deep muscles.
- It can also relieve and prevent spasms.
- It strengthens the abdominal muscles and solar plexus, which can improve digestion and intestinal function and even reduce anxiety.
- Bhujangasana improves blood circulation and relieves tension and energy disturbance in the head and eyes.
- It rejuvenates the kidneys and adrenal glands and strengthens the nervous system, which positively affects all vital functions.
- It stimulates the digestives system and relieves constipation
- It elevates the mood
- It decreases menstrual irregularities in women
- It relieves sciatica and asthma.