Cock Pose

Cock pose transforms a seated meditation pose (Lotus) to a hand balance pose. In addition to flexibility, one needs good upper body arm strength. The hands and arms are used to lift one off the floor. If you are unable to get into Lotus pose or hold Lotus pose more than a few seconds, Cock pose may be too challenging. Cock pose provides the mental and physical benefits of Lotus pose plus increasing balance, wrist and upper body strength.

English Name: Cock

Sanskrit Name: Kukkutasana

Difficulty Level: 8

Start Position: Seated Lotus

Instructions:

Step 1.

Thread your arms under your knees while keeping your legs in Lotus pose.

Step 2.

Lean your body forward, and place your hands flat on the floor energizing through your spread fingers.

Step 3.

Straightening your arms to left your buttocks and legs off the floor.

Step 4.

Hold the pose for 4 or 5 breathes, or as long as it feels comfortable. Slowly lower your buttocks and legs to the floor. Repeat if desired.

Physical Benefits:

• Stretches the spine
• Strengthens arms and wrists
• Improves balance and upper body strength
• Increases hip and knee flexibility
• Opens up the hips
• Tones abdominal muscles
• Improves digestion

Mental Benefits

• Improves mental acuity
• Reduces stress

Contraindications:

• Wrist, arm, or shoulder injury
• Low back injury
• Ankle, hip or knee injury
• Leg, arm, or back injury