Half Cobra (Ardha Bhujangasana)
- At March 10, 2020
- By Daniel
- In Asana, Yoga Benefits
0

Half Cobra has the same physical and mental benefits of Cobra Pose. If you are new to yoga and have limited flexibility, you can do Half Cobra instead of Cobra pose in Sun Salutations and other yoga routines until you develop flexibility to do full Cobra pose.
English Name: Half Cobra
Sanskrit Name: Bhujangasana
Difficulty Level: 4
Start Position: Lying on belly
Instructions:
Step 1.
Position your hands alongside your ribs.
Step 2.
Inhale, slinging your chest forward and slightly up, keeping your belly on the floor.
Step 3.
Extend through the crown of your head and keep your shoulders drawn back. Gaze at the floor.
Step 4.
Hold for several breaths, or as long as is comfortable, and exhale back to start position. Repeat if desired.
Physical Benefits:
- Improves circulation
- Improves posture
- Improves digestion
- Opens the chest and shoulders
- Lengthens the spine
- Increased spinal flexibility
- Strengthens lower back
- Strengthens shoulders
Mental Benefits
- Reduces stress
- Improves focus
- Reduces mild depression
- Reduces anxiety
Contraindications:
- Pregnancy
- High blood pressure
- Severe spinal injury
- Severe neck injury