Sleeping Thunderbolt pose

November 7, 2012/in Vadrasana/by Christina Jagusiak

Supta Vajrasana

Sit in Thunderbolt pose (Vajrasana).
Slowly bend back, taking the support of the body onto the right elbow and arm and then the left.
Lower the top of the head to the floor and arch the back.
Once balanced in the position rest the hands on the thighs.
Try to keep the knees in contact with the floor. If necessary, separate the knees.
Ensure there is no strain.
Close the eyes and relax the body.
Remain in the position for as long as comfortable then engage the core muscles and gracefully exit, by reversing the movements and returning to Thunderbolt pose (Vajrasana).

Breathing

Slow and deep.

Awareness

The crown of the head, neck, abdomen or lower back.
Swadhisthana, anahata or vishuddhi chakra.

Modification

In the final position, rest on the back of the head, instead of on the top.

Contraindications

Knee problems.
Back ailments.
Neck problems.
Sciatica.
Slipped disc.
Sacral ailments.
High or low blood pressure.

Benefits

Beneficial for the digestive and reproductive systems.
Alleviates constipation.
Stimulates spinal nerves.
Regulates the thyroid gland.
Stretches the chest encouraging more oxygen into the system.
Helpful for Asthma, bronchitis and other lung ailments.

Practice note

Always release the pose by returning to Vajrasana. As straightening the legs first may dislocate the knee joints.
Place a small cushion under the knees for support.
Position pudding under the head and neck if required.