Daily Rabbit Pose for Calm Mind and Relaxed Spine

New Delhi, October 27: Stress, worry and back discomfort are increasingly common in modern routines. Shashakasana, widely known as the Rabbit Pose, is a gentle yoga posture that promotes a quiet mind and a relaxed body. Daily practice is believed to bring relief to the spine, shoulders and back, along with a reduction in mental strain.

Shashakasana is derived from two words. 'Shashaka' means rabbit, while 'asana' means posture. The body's position in this pose looks like a rabbit, which gives the asana its name.

The Ayush Ministry suggests doing this pose regularly. It is an effective asana for lowering stress, anxiety and anger, and it helps the mind settle. The pose is also linked with benefits for the lower back, the flexibility of the spine and digestion. It helps in managing the adrenal gland as well, making it useful for the well-being of children and adults alike.

It is best to practice in a peaceful environment whenever possible. Start by sitting in Vajrasana on a yoga mat with a straight spine. Slowly widen your knees while keeping the big toes in contact with each other.

Inhale deeply and place both palms on the floor between the knees. Exhale gradually as you bend forward and try to rest your chin on the ground. Keep both arms straight and parallel to each other. Gaze forward and breathe at a normal pace for 10 to 30 seconds. Then slowly come back to Vajrasana. Initially, perform the pose within your ability and increase the duration over time.

According to the guidelines, the practice can be continued for 10 to 15 minutes.

Those dealing with severe back pain, high blood pressure, hernia, or an injury to the neck or knee should not perform this asana.