Baddha Konasana

(Bound Angle Pose)

(BAH-dah cone-AHS-anna)
baddha = bound
kona = angle

Also called Cobbler's Pose, named after the typical sitting position of Indian cobblers, is a deep inner groin- and hip-opener.

Benefits
Stretches the thighs, knees, and ankles. Stretches the hips, groins and calves. It strengthens the bladder and is invaluable for menstrual problems and in pregnancy. This posture can be extremely challenging, adjustments by a teacher may be necessary and emotional release is common. Therapeutic for flat feet, high blood pressure, infertility, and asthma. Traditional texts say that Baddha Konasana destroys disease and gets rid of fatigue. Breath control and conscious relaxation of the muscles of the groin are essential. Massaging the hips and the quadriceps before working into the posture may be helpful.

Variation

Turn head up to either direction and pull corners of the mouth up toward the ears... No adjustment necessary!