Chopping Wood Pose (Kashtha Takshanasana) – Steps, Benefits

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Chopping Wood In Yoga - Kashtha Takshanasana, how to do Chopping Wood In Yoga - Kashtha Takshanasana, benefits of Chopping Wood In Yoga - Kashtha Takshanasana, precautions.
Chopping Wood Pose (Kashtha Takshanasana)

Chopping Wood Pose, also known as Kashtha Takshanasana in Sanskrit, is a yoga asana that is inspired by the motion of chopping wood with an axe.

Overview

English NameChopping Wood Pose
Sanskrit NameKashtha Takshanasana
MeaningKashtha Takshanasana is a Sanskrit term that translates to “wood chopping pose” in English.
Base positionStanding
Repetitions8-10
Body PartArms, Back, Legs
CategoryPawanmuktasana Series 3
Category (English)Energy Block poses
BenefitsThis pose is great for building strength in the arms, back, and legs, as well as improving flexibility in the spine and hips.
Chopping Wood Pose (Kashtha Takshanasana) – Overview

How to do Chopping Wood Pose (Kashtha Takshanasana)

  • Squat with the feet flat on the floor about 45 cm apart.
  • The knees should be fully bent and separated.
  • Clasp the fingers of both hands together and place them just above the floor between the feet. Straighten the arms and keep them straight throughout the practice.
  • The elbows should be inside the knees.
  • The eyes should remain open.
  • Imagine the action of chopping wood. Raise the arms above and behind the head, stretching the spine upward. Look up towards the hands.
  • Make a downward stroke with the arms, as if chopping wood. Expel the breath making a ‘Hal’ sound. The hands should return near the floor in between the feet.
  • This is one round.
  • Practice 5 to 10 rounds.

Breathing Pattern while doing Chopping Wood Pose (Kashtha Takshanasana) 

  • Inhale while raising the arms.
  • Exhale while lowering the arms.

Benefits of doing Chopping Wood Pose (Kashtha Takshanasana)

  • This asana loosens up the pelvic girdle and tones the pelvic muscles.
  • It also has a special effect on the usually inaccessible muscles of the back between the shoulder blades, as well as the shoulder joints and upper back muscles.
  • It helps to release frustration and lighten the mood.

Precautions: This pose is not for people with knee problems or sciatica.