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 Name | Chopping Wood Pose |
| Sanskrit Name | Kashtha Takshanasana |
| Meaning | Kashtha Takshanasana is a Sanskrit term that translates to “wood chopping pose” in English. |
| Base position | Standing |
| Repetitions | 8-10 |
| Body Part | Arms, Back, Legs |
| Category | Pawanmuktasana Series 3 |
| Category (English) | Energy Block poses |
| Benefits | This pose is great for building strength in the arms, back, and legs, as well as improving flexibility in the spine and hips. |
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.