Bhujangasana & Salabhasana (Cobra, Locust, Sphinx) – Overview
About
- This Asana Digest covers: Bhujangasana, Niralamba Bhujangasana, Salamba Bhujangasana, Salabhasana, Ardha Salabhasana / Prone Leg Lifts and Vimanasana (Viniyoga Leg Vinyasa)
Sanskrit & Naming
- Bhujangasana
boo-jawng-GAWS-ahna
“bhujanga” = cobra
Cobra Pose
- Niralamba Bhujangasana
“niralamba” = unsupported
Unsupported Cobra Pose
- Salamba Bhujangasana
“salamba” = supported
Supported Cobra Pose
Also known as: Sphinx Pose
- Salabhasana
shawl-uh-BOSS-ahna
“salabha” = locust
Locust Pose
Heart of Poses
- Backbends
Notes
- These backbends are accessible with widely useful benefits.
- These poses are beneficial for strengthening spinal muscles and preparing for other backbends such as Ustrasana (Camel Pose), Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose), Dhanurasana (Bow Pose) and Urdhva Dhanurasana (Wheel / Upward Facing Bow Pose).
- When practicing versions of Salabhasana that include shoulder extension, the pose also helps to prepare for Salamba Sarvangasana (Shoulderstand).
- These poses offer more strength-building than some backbends because there isn’t a linking of upper and lower body to gain leverage.
- These poses tend to appear easier than they are. New students need instruction in subtleties including moving their focus from the lumbar spine to the entire length of the spine.
- See Cautions regarding low back and straining.
Much More in this Digest
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See Also
- Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward Facing Dog Pose)
- Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
- Asana Categories
- General Alignment Principles
- Alignment Cueing
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