Balasana

(Child Pose)

(bah-LAHS-anna)
bala = child

This is a resting pose which can be a counterpose between asanas. Because the pose is a forward bend, your attention is naturally drawn inward. Your back is gently rounded.

Benefits
Gently stretches the hips, thighs, and ankles. Calms the brain and helps relieve stress and fatigue. Relieves back and neck pain when done with head and torso supported. Balasana reflects the humble outpouring of the heart. It reminds us to cultivate our inner innocence so that we in turn may see the world without judgement or criticism. This pose is also a profound expression of your heart's devotion to God, thus involving Anahata Chakra (Heart). The health of our heart center registers the quality and power of love in our life.

Partering

Balasana provides a symbolic place of ego-oriented thoughts, bows humbly below the heart. This form reflects a pose of offering, a pranam, in which the light of the heart pours out over the head dissolving selfish motives. This asana reminds us that each of us has something uniquely beautiful and valuable to give. Placing the offering at the feet reflects our detachment from any outcome, even the possibility that our gift will not be picked up or gladly received. We must trust that intention will receive all sincere and open-hearted gifts, despite their apparent outer value.