Backward Bends


Simhasana 2 (Lion Pose 2)

Lion Pose 2
Level: Advanced

Simha = a lion, “the powerful one.”

If you are unable to do full Padmasana (Lotus Pose), the pose can be done with the legs bound together with a belt in Ardha Padmasana (Half Lotus Pose) or Sukhasana (Comfortable Pose).

Organizing the Pose


  1. Sit in Padmasana (Lotus Pose).
  2. Lift up onto the knees and place the hands on the floor in front of you.
  3. Walk the hands forward and drop the hips towards the floor.
  4. Draw the waist and the sides of the chest forward and up.
  5. Hold the pose for 20 to 30 seconds.
  6. Release out of the pose, uncross the legs and do the second crossing.

Practice Points


  • Soften and widen the buttocks and outer thighs.
  • Lengthen the inner thighs to the knees.
  • Stretch from the hip creases to the head.
  • Press the palms back and reach the sides of the trunk forward and up.
  • Widen the collarbones and upper back evenly.
  • Press the shoulder blades forward and down towards the palms.
  • Soften and widen the back of the neck.