Vajrāsana is one of the most common traditional physical postures practiced by yoga practitioners. It is often used as a resting pose after difficult asanas. Asanas, often referred to as yoga postures, are a crucial part of yoga practice. However, they are often misunderstood as mere physical exercises. Before discussing Vajrāsana, let’s try to understand Asanas.
Asanas
Yogic texts like Hathayoga Pradipika and Patanjala Yoga Sutras emphasize the significance of asanas. Hathayoga Pradipika considers asana the first limb of Hatha Yoga, while Patanjali Yoga Sutras list it as the third limb out of eight limbs of yoga.
In today's world, due to lack of knowledge, asanas are often reduced to fitness routines. However, they hold a much deeper meaning. Asanas not only improve flexibility and strength, but they also promote physical and mental well-being.
Five Elements of Asana Practice
For an asana to be truly effective, it should incorporate five key elements:
Vinyasa (Flow): This refers to the mindful movement of the body into and out of the pose.
Shwasa (Breath): Coordinating breath with body movements enhances flexibility.
Sthiti (Maintaining the Pose): Holding the final posture for a specific duration maximizes its benefits.
Drishti (Focal Point): Focusing on specific internal or external points improves body awareness and
alertness.
Vishranti (Relaxation): A relaxed state of mind and body is essential while performing the pose.
As you are acquainted with yoga, let’s try to understand Vajrāsana
Vajrasana - Traditional yoga approach
janghābhyamvajravatkṛtvā gudapārśve padavubhau
Vajrāsanam bhavedetadyoginām siddhidāyakam
Both thighs should be tight, folding at the knee, place the legs on either side of the anus. This posture is called Vajrāsana.
There are different explanations regarding the naming of the asana. Calf muscle area is firm and strong and may be equated with thunderbolt. Keeping both the legs by the two sides of the anus, the asana is practiced in a stiff position. This may have.caused it to be named so. The Sanskrit word Vajra means ‘weapon’ and it symbolizes the unique properties of diamond such as indestructibility, strength and stability.
Vajra is also used to refer male reproductive organ. This practice stops the flow of blood in the lower region of the body and increases blood circulation from navel to anus, which is very favourable for the reproductive organ.
Vajrāsana: Practice Method
Vajrāsana, also known as the Thunderbolt Pose, should be practiced in the below given manner:
Sit comfortably on the floor with legs stretched out straight in front of you.
Gently bend your left knee and tuck the left foot underneath your left hip, keeping the heel close to your body.
Repeat this with the right side. Bend your right knee and place the right foot under your right hip and heel close to your body.
Stretch your arms, with elbows straight and keep the palms on the knees facing down.
Sit tall with your spine erect. Maintain a straight line from your torso through your neck and head.
Hold the posture for a comfortable amount of time. As you gain experience, you can gradually increase the duration.
To come out of the pose, release your right leg first, gently straightening it back out. Then, repeat with the left leg.
Benefits of Vajrāsana
Vajrāsana is a powerful asana for improving your physical, emotional and mental health. There are various benefits that come with the regular practice of Vajrāsana. This asana helps in digestion of food. Vajrāsana is the only asana that can be performed right after food. It has a direct impact on how the nadi, 'Vajra' functions. Controlling the vajra nadi allows the practitioner to control sexual energy. Practicing Vajrāsana with complete dedication is also said to bestow psychic abilities to the practitioner.
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