Baddha Konasana means bound angle pose. It is also known as "cobbler's pose", as Indian shoemakers sit with a shoe between their feet, with such ease! This pose is an excellent hip and groin opener, stimulates the reproductive system and benefits men and women alike. Baddha Konasana is particularly beneficial as a prenatal posture and can be practised throughout pregnancy.
Procedure:
- Sit with your legs stretched out.
- Bend your knees and draw your heels towards your pelvis, let your knees fall to the sides and place the soles of your feet together.
- Grasp your ankles and bring your heels as close to your perineum as is comfortable. Keep the outer edges of the feet firmly on the floor.
- Stretch your back so that the torso is upright. Relax the muscles at the top of the thighs and outer hips, and gently bring the knees to the floor or as close as possible to the floor without straining.
- Try and relax in to the posture, maintaining normal breathing. Hold the final posture for 1 minute.
Benefits:
- It is an excellent preparation for childbirth and menstruation.
- It stimulates the abdominal organs, and nervous and respiratory systems.
- It provides an adequate stretch to the inner thighs, groin and knees.
- It relieves anxiety, fatigue and mild depression.
- It is therapeutic for flat feet, high blood pressure and asthma.
Caution:
- Do not practise this posture if you are suffering from a groin or knee injury.
Bharat Thakur guides you through practices that will connect you to the wisdom of the ancient Indian science of exercising.
