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Karna Pidasana (Ear Pressure Pose)

Updated: Apr 10, 2023

Karna Pidasana is a yoga asana that involves the compression of the ears and pressure on the knees and thighs. It is also known as Karnapidasana or the ear-pressure pose.

To perform Karna Pidasana, one must lie on the back and bring the knees towards the ears while keeping the hands on the lower back for support. This asana is considered an advanced pose and should only be attempted under the guidance of a qualified yoga instructor.





How To Perform Karna Pidasana (Ear Pressure Pose)

  1. Begin by lying on your back on a yoga mat.

  2. Place your hands underneath your hips with your palms facing down.

  3. Lift your legs up towards the ceiling, keeping them together.

  4. Exhale and bend your knees, bringing them towards your ears.

  5. Slowly lower your legs towards your head, keeping your knees bent.

  6. Try to touch the floor with your toes and hold the position for a few breaths.

  7. To release the pose, slowly bring your legs back to the starting position and release your hands from underneath your hips.

  8. Rest in savasana for a few breaths before moving on to your next pose.

It is important to take your time with this pose and not force your legs to touch your ears. If you have any discomfort or pain in your neck, back, or hips, come out of the pose and try again another time.


Note: Karna Pidasana is an advanced pose that should only be attempted under the guidance of a certified yoga teacher.


Modifications

  • If you have difficulty placing your legs behind your head, you can practice with your legs extended up towards the ceiling or with your legs in a half Lotus position.

  • You can use a strap or towel to help you bind your hands behind your back.

  • If you have neck issues, you can place a folded blanket or cushion under your shoulders to provide additional support.

Benefits
  • Strengthens the arms, shoulders, and core muscles.

  • Stretches the back and neck.

  • Increases flexibility in the hips and legs.

  • Stimulates the abdominal organs.

  • Calms the mind and reduces stress.

Contraindications
  • Neck injuries or pain.

  • Shoulder injuries or pain.

  • Lower back injuries or pain.

  • Pregnancy.

Chakras
  • Manipura (solar plexus chakra)

  • Swadhisthana (sacral chakra)

Doshas
  • Kapha: This pose can help to stimulate and invigorate the body, which can benefit those with a Kapha-dominant constitution.

  • Vata: This pose can be challenging for those with a Vata-dominant constitution, so it's important to practice with caution and modify as necessary.

  • Pitta: This pose can help to release tension and calm the mind, which can benefit those with a Pitta-dominant constitution.

Drishti
  • Nose (nasagra drishti) or toes (padagra drishti)


History Of Karna Pidasana (Ear Pressure Pose)


Karna Pidasana is a modern asana that was likely developed in the 20th century as part of the evolution of Hatha Yoga. There is no known traditional or historical context or text that mentions this specific pose.



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