Pose of the Month: Camel (Ustrasana)

After exploring the internet I noticed many yoga sites post a “Pose of the month”. I was a little disappointed to find most only cover to the anatomical value of each pose; they haven’t included what I find to be the most interesting and juicy parts … the ancient science & philosophy behind each pose.

The reason behind putting the pose of the month issue together….

I’d really love my students to not only understand why they are performing poses but to give them a deeper insight into why or what they may experience physically or emotionally within a yoga pose. This helped me recognise the milestones within my own yoga journey. And so I hope it helps you…..

Many thanks and respect to my yoga teacher Yogarishi Vishvaketu who taught me the limitless depth and beauty to be found in Yoga.

Ustranasana / Camel Pose

Benefits

Anatomical    

• Stretches the entire front  inc. ankles
• Stretches groin, thighs and shoulders
• Releases the deep hip flexors (psoas)
• Strengthens back muscles
• Improves posture
• Stimulates the organs of the abdomen

 Physiological/ Energetic          

• Opens up lungs engaging the thymus gland
• Improves function of metabolism (para/thyroid)
• improves function of the pancreas – Diabetes
• Helpful for Asthma
• Helpful Depression & Greif
• Balances the first 5 Chakras esp. heart

Alignment / Execution

• Try to keep the thighs lifted with an internal rotation, then press pubic bone forward
• Keep the lower back long with tailbone centres before arching backwards
• Keep chest lifted and heart open and draw shoulders away from the ears
• Close the jaw to stretch the throat.
• Only grab heels if you can see behind you, tuck toes under to modify

Variations

Camel Pose Variations

• Half Camel (pictured above)
• Camel against wall facing towards and away
• Parivrtta : Twisted Single Armed Camel
• Kurmasana : with head to floor

Preparational Pose: Fish pose ( Matysasana)/ Locust Salabhasana