Simhagarjanasana, or Lion’s Roar Pose, is a variation of Simhasana or Lion’s Pose. It involves sitting in the lion’s pose and roaring like a lion. It’s an extremely therapeutic exercise.
Overview
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| English Name | Roaring Lion Pose |
| Sanskrit Name | Simhagarjanasana |
| Meaning | The word “Simha” means “lion”, garajana means “roaring”, and “asana” means “pose”. Simhagarajasana translates into the pose of the roaring lion. |
| Base Position | Sitting on the heels |
| Duration | 5-10 minutes |
| Body Part | Throat, Knees, Thighs |
| Category | Vajrasana Group of Asanas |
| Benefits | Simhagarjanasana is believed to have many benefits, including reducing stress and tension, releasing negative emotions, improving respiratory health, strengthening the vocal cords, and promoting overall well-being. |
How to do Simhagarjanasana (Roaring Lion Pose)
- Sit in simhasana.
- Open the eyes and gaze at the eyebrow centre, adopting shambhavi mudra.
- Relax the whole body.
- Keep the mouth closed.
- Inhale slowly and deeply through the nose.
- At the end of inhalation, open the mouth and extend the tongue out as far as possible towards the chin.
- While slowly exhaling, produce a clear, steady ‘aaa’ sound from the throat, keeping the mouth wide open. Do not strain or force the sound in any way.
- At the end of exhalation, close the mouth and breathe in. This is one round.
Breathing pattern while doing Simhagarjanasana: Inhale slowly through the nose and then slowly exhale through the mouth with the ‘aaah’ sound.
Benefits of doing Simhagarjanasana (Roaring Lion Pose)
- Reduces stress and tension: The forceful exhalation and release of sound in Simhagarjanasana can help to reduce stress and tension in the body and mind. Tension is removed from the chest and diaphragm.
- Releases negative emotions: The roaring sound made during this posture can help to release negative emotions, allowing for a greater sense of peace and clarity.
- Improves respiratory health: Simhagarjanasana involves deep breathing, which can help to improve respiratory health and increase lung capacity.
- Strengthens the vocal cords: The sound made during Simhagarjanasana can help to strengthen the vocal cords and improve vocal quality.
- Activates the throat chakra: The practice of the roaring lion pose can help to activate the Vishuddha or throat chakra, which can improve communication skills and promote self-expression.
- Promotes overall well-being: The combination of deep breathing, sound release, and stretching in Simhagarjanasana can promote overall well-being and leave you feeling energized and revitalized.
- This is an excellent asana for the throat, nose, ears, eyes and mouth, especially if performed facing the healing rays of the early morning sun.
- Simhagarjanasana is useful for people who stutter or who are nervous and introverted. It develops a strong and beautiful voice.
Variation: Move the tongue slowly from side to side, while making a long ‘aaa’ sound.