Roaring Lion
Simhagarjanasana
- Sit in Lion Pose (Simhasana).
- Open the eyes and gaze at the eyebrow centre, adopting shambhavi mudra.
- Relax the whole body.
- Open the mouth and extend the tongue out as far as possible towards the chin.
- Produce a clear, steady ‘aaah’ sound, keeping the mouth wide open.
- Fully expressive with no strain.
- Once breath has been exhaled completely, close the mouth and relax the jaw.
- Practice 5-10 rounds.
Breathing
- Inhale slowly through the nose.
- Exhale through the mouth with the ‘aaah’ sound.
Awareness
- The opening of the chest.
- The sensation in the eyes and tongue.
- On the sound produced, the feeling of emotional release and the effect on the throat area.
- Vishuddhi or ajna chakra.
Contraindications
- Knee problems.
Benefits
- Blood flow from the legs is redirected to the abdomen stimulating the digestive system.
- Helps to remove piles.
- Strengthens the pelvic muscles.
- Useful in dilated veins of the testicles and hydrocele in men.
- Alleviates menstrual disorders, hernia and sciatica.
- Improves varicose veins and fluid retention in the legs.
- Lengthens the spinal cord.
- Positive affect on the throat, nose, ears, eyes and mouth.
- Relieves frustration and releases emotional tension.
- Alleviates stuttering.
- Helps to develop a strong beautiful voice.
Practice note
- If there is discomfort in the wrists when having the fingertips towards the body, place a blanket under the wrists or rotate the hands so that the fingers face forward.
- Place a small cushion between the thighs and the calves to release pressure on the knees.
- A cushion can also be placed under the ankles for more comfort.
- Move the tongue slowly from side to side, while making a long ‘aaah’ sound.
- If the eyes get tired in shambhavi mudra close them.
