The Camel Pose, also known as Ustrasana in Sanskrit, is a powerful backbend that involves kneeling on the floor and reaching back to grasp the ankles or feet while arching the back and extending the chest forward. This yoga asana is considered a heart opener, as it opens up the chest and expands the rib cage, helping to release tension and improve breathing.
Mentally, the Camel Pose can help to release stress and anxiety, as well as boost self-confidence and self-esteem. It is said to bring a sense of peace and calm to the mind and can also help to improve focus and concentration. It is important to practice the Camel Pose with caution and under the guidance of a qualified instructor, especially if you have any neck or back issues. You can also use props like blankets or blocks to support the lower back and make the pose more accessible. Overall, the Camel Pose is a dynamic and invigorating yoga asana that can help to improve both physical and mental well-being.Top of Form
The pose symbolizes the overcoming of fear and self-doubt, and the ability to stand tall and face life’s challenges with confidence and courage. In yoga philosophy, the backbend represents the opening of the heart and the release of emotions and negative thought patterns. The act of reaching back and grasping the heels in Ustrasana symbolizes the connection to one’s inner wisdom and strength. It represents the journey of the self from fear and self-doubt to self-acceptance and self-love. Ustrasana also represents the release of attachment to material possessions and external validation, as well as the breaking down of societal norms and expectations. By practicing this pose, one can develop the courage to live authentically and follow one’s own path, even if it is different from the norm.
In terms of the physical body, Ustrasana is said to stimulate the thyroid gland, which is responsible for regulating metabolism and energy levels. This, in turn, represents the idea of inner fire or inner energy, and the ability to harness this energy to overcome obstacles and achieve one’s goals.
Overall, Ustrasana is a powerful pose that symbolizes the journey of self-discovery and the release of fear, attachment, and negative thought patterns. By practicing this pose regularly, one can develop the courage and confidence to face life’s challenges and live authentically.
How to do Camel Pose?
The Camel Pose, or Ustrasana, is a challenging backbend that requires flexibility, strength, and courage. Here are the steps to perform this pose:
- Begin on your knees with your legs hip-width apart and your knees directly under your hips. Place your hands on your lower back with your fingers pointing down.
- Inhale and press down into your knees to lift your chest and head upward. Keep your gaze forward, lifting your chest and stretching your neck.
- Reach back with one hand to grasp your right heel, and then with the other hand, reach back to grasp your left heel. Keep your knees and legs hip-width apart and your knees directly under your hips.
- lift your chest and head higher, and open your heart to the sky. Keep your gaze forward, and extend your arms fully, reaching back to grasp your heels.
- Hold the pose for a few breaths, focusing on your breath and the stretch in your spine, neck, and chest. To release the pose, slowly release your hands from your heels and bring your head and chest down.
- Take a few breaths to return to a neutral position, and then repeat the pose 2-3 times, holding for 3-5 breaths each time.
It is important to approach the Camel Pose with caution, especially if you have any neck or back injuries. You can also use props like blankets or blocks to support your lower back and make the pose more accessible. If you are new to this pose, it is recommended to practice under the guidance of a qualified yoga instructor.
With regular practice, you can increase your flexibility and strength, and experience the many benefits of the Camel Pose, both physically and mentally. Remember to approach this pose with a sense of curiosity and self-exploration, and allow your practice to be an ongoing journey of self-discovery.
Benefits of Camel Pose
- Improving flexibility in the spine, neck, and hips
- Strengthening the core and back muscles
- Stimulating the thyroid gland, which can regulate metabolism and energy levels
- Relieving stress and anxiety
- Improving digestion by massaging the abdominal organs
- Boosting self-confidence and self-esteem
Precautions of Camel Pose
- Avoid the pose if you have any neck or back injuries
- Use props like blankets or blocks to support the lower back and make the pose more accessible
- Avoid over-extending the neck, and keep the gaze forward
- If you experience any discomfort or pain, release the pose and seek the guidance of a qualified instructor
Join our upcoming Yoga teacher training course in Bali and learn about more postures in detail explaining the anatomical as well as philosophical aspects of it.