Virasana or Yoga Hero Pose
Yoga is an ancient Indian science of fitness. It has its roots in Hinduism and Buddhism. Yoga originated as an exercise for the mind and soul that is supposed to provide peace, particularly to the mind. It is an art of meditation that provides psychological as well as physical benefits.
The Virasana, or Hero Pose, is one of the basic seated yoga poses. It is the starting pose for several forward and backwards bends and certain twists. The Virasana may also be used as an alternative to other seated poses such as the Padmasana (Lotus Pose).
Benefits of the Virasana: The major advantages of Hero Pose are as follows:
How to perform the Hero Pose:
Variations: As is common with most yoga poses, there are many variations to the Virasana, depending on the school of yoga that is followed. Some of the more popular variations include:
Precautions: The Hero Pose as well as its variations must be performed with caution. The Virasana must be avoided if you have any injury or problems in your knees, ankles, or feet, as the pose exerts a lot of pressure on these parts. If you are unsure as to whether performing this pose is right for you, seek the advice of a qualified yoga instructor who will be able to guide you through any required modifications to make the Virasana suitable for your special needs.
The Virasana, or Hero Pose, is one of the basic seated yoga poses. It is the starting pose for several forward and backwards bends and certain twists. The Virasana may also be used as an alternative to other seated poses such as the Padmasana (Lotus Pose).
Benefits of the Virasana: The major advantages of Hero Pose are as follows:
- It improves body posture.
- It stretches the ankles and thighs, thereby regulating the muscles and nerves of the feet.
- It is one of the best poses for meditation.
How to perform the Hero Pose:
- Kneel on the floor with your calves and feet touching the floor. Keep your thighs together.
- Attempt to sit on your feet by initially taking the support of your hands and then slowly lowering your hips to the floor. If sitting on your feet strains your joints, you may place a yoga blanket between your feet and buttocks.
- Rest your hands on your lap, ankles, or thighs.
- Square your shoulders and inhale deeply through both the nostrils. Hold the inhaled breath for a few seconds before slowly exhaling. Repeat this until you feel your muscles relax as your body enters a pre-meditative state.
- Ensure that your back is held straight at all times.
- Maintain the pose for at least a minute.
Variations: As is common with most yoga poses, there are many variations to the Virasana, depending on the school of yoga that is followed. Some of the more popular variations include:
- Downward Facing Hero Pose (Adho Mukha Virasana)
- Reclining Here Pose (Supta Virasana)
Precautions: The Hero Pose as well as its variations must be performed with caution. The Virasana must be avoided if you have any injury or problems in your knees, ankles, or feet, as the pose exerts a lot of pressure on these parts. If you are unsure as to whether performing this pose is right for you, seek the advice of a qualified yoga instructor who will be able to guide you through any required modifications to make the Virasana suitable for your special needs.