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Writer's pictureYoga

Pindasana (Embryo Pose)

Updated: Apr 10, 2023

Pindasana, also known as Embryo Pose, is a seated yoga posture that involves wrapping the arms around the legs and curling the body into a compact, fetal position. In this asana, the knees are drawn up towards the chest, and the arms are wrapped around the legs, with the hands clasping the opposite elbows. The forehead is brought to rest on the knees or as close to the knees as possible.


How to get into Pindasana (Embryo Pose)?


  1. Begin by sitting in Lotus Pose (Padmasana) or Half Lotus Pose (Ardha Padmasana).

  2. Slowly lower your upper body forward until your forehead touches the floor. Keep your arms at your sides, palms facing up.

  3. Reach your arms around your back and hold onto your opposite elbows, placing your hands on your lower back or sacrum.

  4. Inhale deeply, and as you exhale, roll forward and raise your hips off the ground. Keep your elbows and forearms on the ground.

  5. Hold this position for several breaths, then release and return to Lotus Pose or Ardha Padmasana.



Modifications

  • If you find it difficult to reach the elbows, you can place the hands on the knees instead

  • If you have knee or lower back issues, you can use props such as blankets or blocks under the knees to make the pose more comfortable

Benefits
  • Stretches the back muscles and spine

  • Stimulates the digestive system and improves digestion

  • Calms the mind and reduces stress and anxiety

  • Massages the abdominal organs, improving their function

  • Stretches the hips and groin muscles

  • Improves blood circulation

  • Relieves tension in the lower back

  • Helps to release negative emotions and promotes a sense of inner peace


Contraindications
  • Avoid this pose if you have a knee or back injury or pain

  • Pregnant women should avoid this pose, particularly after the first trimester

Chakras
  • Pindasana is said to activate the Muladhara (root) chakra, which is associated with grounding and stability.

Doshas
  • Pindasana is thought to balance the Vata dosha, which can be aggravated by stress and anxiety.

Drishis
  • The drishti, or gaze, is on the tip of the nose in this pose. This helps to bring focus to the breath and calm the mind.


History Of Pindasana (Embryo Pose)


Pindasana is a traditional yoga pose that is often practiced in Ashtanga Yoga. It is said to stimulate the digestive system, increase circulation, and promote overall health and well-being. The pose is believed to be based on the fetal position, and is sometimes called "Embryo Pose" for this reason. In the Ashtanga Yoga tradition, Pindasana is often practiced as part of the primary series, following the seated postures and preceding the backbends. It is considered a preparatory pose for other more advanced postures such as Bakasana (Crow Pose) and Sirsasana (Headstand).









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