Krounchasana is an Asana. It is translated as Herron Pose of Sanskrit. The name of this posture comes from “krauncha” which means “herron”, and “asana” which means “posture” or “seat”.
We encourage you to expand your knowledge and understanding of yoga by educating yourself here! This is a great posture for rigid hamstrings, but, as with most asanas, it should be practiced with caution to avoid tightening the muscles.
If you are unable to fully straighten your raised leg when in Krounchasana, attach a strap or strap around the sole of your foot before attempting to lift the leg. Hold the strap on both sides as close to the foot as possible when extending the leg. Be sure to keep the pelvis aligned with the bones sitting along this posture.Heron Pose:
Start in Dandasana (Personal Pose). Place your left leg in Virasana (Hero Pose) – your left foot should point in line with your same side pimple, placed slightly off the hip with the top of the flat foot on the floor. Keep your knees together with your weight evenly distributed on the seated bones.
Bend your right knee and place your foot on the floor, just in front of your right bone. Now, reach your right arm around the inside of your right leg, cross your hand in front of the ankle, and hold it on the outside of your foot. Then, grasp the inside of that same foot (the right foot) with your left hand.
Lean slightly backwards, keeping the spine straight, the torso long, the shoulder blades activated and the chest up and open. Lift and straighten your right leg by bringing the foot up. When straight, your right foot should reach as high or slightly higher than your head, but you can carry it as close to your torso as is comfortable.
Keep Krounchasana for at least 30 seconds, breathing slow and deep. Keep your weight balanced on your seated bones. Loosen and repeat with inverted legs for the same number of breaths.
Benefits of Heron Pose:
· Stretches back, hips and hamstrings
· Stimulates the heart and abdominal organs
· Therapy for flat feet and persistent gas (flatulence)
