Asana Digest Overview

Poses

Agnistambhasana (Fire Log), also known as Dwi Pada Rajakapotasana (Double Pigeon) and Square pose

Objective

Become knowledgeable about the pose and review detailed teaching considerations.

Description

Explain the Sanskrit naming; contraindications and cautions; associated benefits and typical effects; instructions and cues for setting up and practicing the pose; variations to meet particular intentions and needs; and more teaching considerations.

Prerequisite Knowledge

The focus of Asana Digests is teaching specific poses. This support presumes you’re aware of the groundwork and teaching support here: Asana Category – Forward Bends & Hip Stretching Poses.

Poses Overview

Agnistambhasana

Fire Log Pose
Also known as: Dwi Pada Rajakapotasana (Double Pigeon) and Square Pose

Heart of Pose

Hip Stretch

Mythology & Imagery

In the Rig Veda, fire is personified as Agni (which has the same root as our word “ignite”). Agni is said to be present in the fire of the sun, in the stars, the lightning. He is in the digestive fire in our bellies and in the pillar of smoke that links us with the gods and this world with the next. The ritual of “building a fireplace” was the centerpiece of ancient Vedic civilization. Fire is the agent of sacrifice and transformation, and the sacred fire altar was a portal between the worlds, a threshold place where prayers and sacrificial offerings could pass from earth to heaven and blessings could descend from heaven to earth—all through the medium of the fire… Many mythological stories feature fire, sacrifice, and the results of its correct or incorrect execution. – Zo Newell, Yoga International, The Mythology Behind Agnistambhasana  link

Much More in this Digest

Asana Digests are precisely organized so that you can quickly get what you need. Please select from the menu above and be sure to review any contraindications and cautions.

Related Support

• Asana Categories
• General Alignment Principles
• Alignment Cueing