Bhujangasana

(Cobra Pose)

(boo-jang-GAHS-anna)
bhujanga = serpent, snake

In Sanskrit language Bhujanga means a cobra hence the name, mostly used in the West. In Bhujangasana the body is facing downward while the upper body is curling up and back resembling a cobra reared up on its caudal support with the hood fully expanded ready to strike. This pose is mostly practiced as the first in the series of backward bending asanas followed by Locust and Bow postures. It is also the most well known backward bending pose in hatha yoga. The Cobra pose destroys all diseases, increases body heat and awakens kundalini. Kundalini is the energy of consciousness, the awareness of the higher self, our emanation of infinity, the energy of the cosmos within each individual. Therefore a quite advanced posture - mentally, energetically and spiritually.

Benefits
Strengthens the spine, stretches chest and lungs, shoulders, and abdomen. Firms the buttocks and stimulates abdominal organs. Helps relieve stress and fatigue while opening the heart and lungs. Soothes sciatica and therapeutic for asthma.

Variation
King Cobra or Raja Bhugangasana. The King Cobra reptile is one of the most venomous snakes in the world. Unlike the namesake raja bhugangasana is more subtle and non venomous. King Cobra pose opens the heart and humbles the mind as the toes touch the mind realizing we are all grounded inside.