Makarasana (Crocodile Pose) - How to Practice, Its Benefits and Precautions
Makarasana is derived from Sanskrit words “Makar” means “crocodile” “asana” means “Pose’. Makarasana is a deep, relaxing, and restorative pose. It is a pose, which is best performed at the end of a tedious session. This is great for relaxation, in contrast with Shavasana, where the incumbent may fall asleep. However, in Makarasana, the pressure remains on the neck region, so the practitioner stays conscious. If you practice this properly, and on a regular basis, you will look calm on the outside, but underneath you will be very productive.
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How To Do It?
⦁ Lie down on your stomach.
⦁ Take support from your elbow to lift your head, neck and the chest.
⦁ Join the elbows of both the hands, making a stand, and rest the palms of both the hands below your chin.
⦁ The fingers and thumbs will be touching your cheeks. Both the feet would be separate according to the shoulder distance.
⦁ Keep your toe out and heels inwards.
Benefits of Makarasana (Crocodile Pose)
⦁ Makarasana relieves the condition of back aches and pains. It also helps in the proper development of the upper and lower back extensor muscles.
⦁ It has a huge effect on the mental state. It mainly activates the parasympathetic nervous system.
⦁ If you practice this asana, on a regular basis, the blood circulation stay in top condition, and the heart also remains healthy.
⦁ It is very effective in conditions of Asthma. Many COPD patients see significant improvement, when they practice this asana on a regular basis.
⦁ If you practice this asana, on a regular basis, your muscle flexibility and endurance will increase.
⦁ You can perform this with meditation and Pranayama.
⦁ It also has a therapeutic effect on the digestive system.
⦁ It assists in curing or managing Diabetes Type 1 and 2 diseases, by acting on the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Contraindications
⦁ If you suffer from any serious back injury, sprains, strains, and any nerve ailments, then you must consult a doctor, before doing this pose.
⦁ Pregnant women have to avoid this asana.
⦁ If you have any issue in your neck region, like any pain, injury, or surgery, then you must not do this asana. They may be Cervical Spondylosis, Pinched nerves, or Slip Discs.
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