Makarasana & Its Benefits – The Crocodile Posture

QUOTE:

“As you consciously relax your mind, you gain a sense of achievement.”

At the Yoga Institute, we teach a diverse range of pranayama s and asanas, incl uding sitting, standing, and lying down asanas. Amon g our students, Makarasana, also known as the crocodile pose, is a favorite due to its numerous benefits.

What is Makarasana?

Let us understand what is Makrasana? - Makarasana is an exceptionally effective asana for relaxation. It helps in calming the mind while simultaneously enhancing alertness. This might sound counterintuitive, but relaxation can actually make you more aware. Much like a crocodile that, despite appearing to be at rest, remains ever-conscious of its surroundings, practicing Makarasana regularly can help you achieve a similar heightened state of awareness.

Now that we have understood What is Makarasana, let's understand how to do Makrasana?

How to Do Makarasana: Lets us learn How to do Makarasana

1. Lie down on your stomach, creating a pillow with your hands.

2. Extend your legs with your toes pointing inward, touching each other, and keep your heels apart.

3. Once in position, remain motionless and let all the weight sink into the ground.

4. Close your eyes, and breathe normally and rhythmically.

5. Stay in this posture for about 2 to 3 minutes.

6. Gently open your eyes, turn to one side, hold for a few seconds, and then sit up.

Benefit of Makarasana:

Makarasana is not just a relaxation pose; its benefits are extensive and can be categorized into three main areas:

Physical Benefit of Makarasana:

• Deep relaxation of the shoulders and spine
• Complete rejuvenation and relaxation of both mind and body
• Slow, deep, and efficient breathing
• Relief from bodily and mental tension

Therapeutic Benefit of Makarasana:

• Alleviates tension from the muscular and nervous systems
• Provides relief from body aches, fatigue, and insomnia
• Normalizes blood pressure, pulse rate, and respiratory cycles through conscious relaxation

Psychological Benefit of Makarasana:

• Enhances concentration and focus
• Induces a meditative effect
• Calms the mind and reduces anxiety

Limitations and Contraindications:

While Makarasana offers many benefits, it is essential to be aware of its limitations and contraindications. It is advisable to avoid this asana if you have:

• Psychological disorders like depression
• Cardiac conditions
• Pregnancy

Now that you are familiar with the numerous benefits of Makarasana, consider incorporating it into your daily asana practice to enhance your overall well-being.