Cow Pose, or Bitilasana in Sanskrit, is a basic yet powerful yoga posture usually incorporated with Cat Pose (Marjaryasana) as part of a graceful sequence. The pose takes its name from the gentle and elegant motions that cows make when walking around meadows.
The pose stretches the abdomen, opens the chest, and strengthens the spine.
How to Do Cow Pose (Bitilasana):
- Begin in a tabletop position with your knees directly beneath your hips, and your hands directly beneath your shoulders. Your back should be flat and parallel to the floor.
- Inhale deeply and allow your belly to fill with air as you arch your back up toward the ceiling like a cat stretching her neck out for pets from her owner. Let your head hang down slightly and look at the ground below you if it’s comfortable for your neck.
- As you exhale, roll through the mid-spine area of your body first, dropping that part of your back slowly toward the floor. Then allow your upper and lower spine to slowly follow, until you reach a neutral tabletop position.
Benefits of Cow Pose (Bitilasana):
- This pose gently stretches the chest, abdomen, and neck while increasing core strength in the muscles along your spine.
- It opens up the shoulders and helps with posture by reducing tension in the upper body muscles which can lead to poor posture or pain over time.
- When practiced regularly, it can help reduce stress and promote relaxation throughout the entire body.
- Additionally, Cow Pose increases flexibility in the hips, ankles, wrists, and shoulders as well as calming benefits for both mind and body.
Precautions for Cow Pose (Bitilasana):
- Avoid this pose if you have any recent or chronic injuries to the neck, back, hips, or shoulders.
- People with neck pain should not turn their head to look at the ground during the pose. Instead, keep your eyes focused forward on a point in front of you.
- If you are pregnant or menstruating, avoid arching your spine too deeply as it can cause excessive abdominal pressure which may be uncomfortable or unsafe in these conditions.
- Practice caution when transitioning between Cat and Cow poses so as not to strain your neck or spine more than necessary by moving too quickly or too deeply into the pose.
- Lastly, if you have any medical conditions, consult with a doctor before practicing this pose to make sure it is safe for you to do.
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By practicing Cow Pose regularly and mindfully one can experience physical, mental, and spiritual benefits over time. Taking the time to stretch your body between asanas can be just as important as the poses themselves. Doing so allows your muscles and joints to open up more before moving on to another posture, which in turn helps bring greater balance and harmony throughout your practice. Enjoy!
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