admin At first glance, Lion Pose can seem a bit unusual. A crouched position, tongue protruding out the mouth, and eyes rolled back—not exactly what you typically think of when envisioning yoga.
Simhasana looks like the pose you strike when someone says, “Funny picture!” But alas, this pose is a reminder to have fun with your yoga practice and not to take yourself too seriously. Every time I practice this pose in the studio, there is a soft laugh that spreads throughout the room. It looks funny and awakens the inner child.
Etymology & Benefits
The Sanskrit term Simhasana is the Sanskrit name for Lion Pose. It mimics the strong stance and lively spirit of an animal. This pose is a combination of asanas (physical postures) and pranayama, which involves breathing work. The result is a deep roaring exhalation at the peak.
The posture also has many other benefits. The pose is a respite from the sometimes strenuous practice and life. It helps to release tension and reduces stress. The pose physically opens the neck, jaw, and throat, which can relieve jaw/neck pain and stimulate the throat Chakra. The pose also stretches out the facial muscles and chest.
The pose’s silliness can boost your confidence, as it teaches you to let go of other people’s opinions. Learn how to do Lion Pose and different ways of changing it.
How to do the Lion Pose
Start in Hero pose (Virasana), seated on your shins, with the knees together and the big toes touching. Sit on the heels and lengthen the torso.
Bring your palms up to your knees.
As you lengthen again from the tailbone up to the crown, inhale slowly.
Exhaling Lion’s Breath is the best part! Exhale slowly and deeply.
Spread your fingers (claws).
The tip of the tongue should reach your chin when you open your mouth wide.
Look up at the third eye, the space between the eyebrows.
Avoid slouching. Broaden your chest and draw the shoulders down and away from the ears.
You should hear your exhalation as you roar and make the sound “ha,” emptying your lungs.
Relax the chest, neck, and hands on the next inhale.
Repeat this breath for eight rounds.
The lion pose can be painful for people with ankle or knee problems. Use modifications when needed, and be mindful when entering or exiting the pose.
Modifications and Variations
Try placing a blanket folded on the backs of your calves at the knee crease. This extra space will make it easier to access and safer for you to do the pose.
You can also take a variation on the seated portion of the pose. In any pose, you can practice Lion’s Breath. Try bringing your seat to Easy Pose ( sukhasana ) and using Lion’s Breath. Some of the most popular variations are using Lion’s Breath in a goddess pose or with a Cat/Cow.
You’ll inhale instead of exhaling as you move into Cat Pose. As your cat transitions to Cow Pose, let out a roar.
Have fun when you practice the animated Lion Pose! This pose can help you reach new levels in your practice, including mental, emotional, and spiritual transformation. It’s important to keep it light and wholehearted while releasing the courage inside with powerful breathwork. Take the plunge and try it!
