Makarasana or the Crocodile pose is a yoga asana used for relaxation. In Sanskrit, ‘Maker’ means crocodile and ‘Asana’ means a pose. Makarasana is a yogic pose useful for people with back and shoulder problems. Lying on the stomach in the crocodile posture, the ribs at the lower side of the rib cage are free to move with breathing. They expand with the inhalation and contract with the exhalation. when lying on the stomach, the back also rise and falls with each breath. By bringing awareness to the side and back, in addition to the abdomen, this stage of breath training introduces a more complete feeling of the dynamics of diaphragmatic breathing.
How to Do Makarasana (The Crocodile Pose)?
- Lie down on the floor on your stomach with your hands folded under the head.
- Place the palms on your shoulders in a relaxed way and close your eyes.
- Stretch the legs as far as possible. The toes should point outwards.
- Relax the whole body. Breathe normally and slowly. Feel the whole body touching the ground and the deep relaxation in all your muscles.
- Relax in this posture for 2 – 5 minutes.
Releasing the Makarasana Position
1. Slowly bring the feet together.
2. Unfold the arms and come to the Prone Position.
Benefits of crocodile pose
- It is excellent for people suffering from spondylitis, slipped disk
- or any other spinal disorder.
- Crocodile reduces stress and tension, promotes sleep.
- Regulates blood pressure and reduces anxiety
- It gives deep relaxation to the shoulders and the spine
