Rabbit Pose - Shashankasana
Basic / Seated / Stretching / Inversions
Pose Summary
Rabbit Pose aka Shashankasana is a great counterpose to Camel Pose or other deep backbends . It lengthens and stretches the space between the vertebrae which ultimately leads to a healthier spine .
Steps
STEP 1
Begin by sitting on the butt on the heels in hero pose. Knees, thighs and ankles are together.
STEP 2
Grab the heels with the back of the hands facing outwards, the thumbs are on the outer edges of the feet and the fingers are on the inner arches.
STEP 3
Engage the core by lifting the navel in and up towards the spine.
STEP 4
Start to round the spine and bring the crown of the head to touch the earth and your forehead to touch the knees. The chin is tucked.
STEP 5
Lift your hips and the butt off the heels rolling forward until your arms are straight.
STEP 6
On an inhale pull on your heels as you round deeper into the posture.
STEP 7
To release, release the grasp of the heels and come back to seated.
Benefits
- Releases tension from the neck, shoulders & back
- Stimulates the thyroid gland
- Promotes digestion
- Helps relieve symptoms of depression and insomnia
Contraindications
- Knee, neck, spine or shoulder injury
- Women who are pregnant
- Back or leg pain