RAJAKAPOTANASANA - The Pigeon
Pose
This pose is often
overlooked and yet is perhaps one of the most useful for Western students of yoga who spend so much time slumped in front
of television and computers. Sitting on chairs and in soft sofas etc the lumbar vertebrae can too easliy collapse;
the tendons and muscles of the front of the groin become shortened; the abdominal muscles remain unused for long periods of
time and the abdomen is squashed inhibiting full diaphragmatic breathing.
In this asana the area of the groin is stretched to improve blood supply to the urinary and reproductive systems.
Hip mobility is increased and the muscles of the lower back are stimulated to take on their natural roles of support and stability.
As with all asanas there are many variations and steps towards
the final advanced position. The important thing is to start at your level and to listen to your body. The advanced
variations can wait for the time being
