Asana Of The Month: Embryo In Womb

Embryo In Womb takes seated Lotus pose to the next level. If you have difficult sitting in Lotus pose, you should pass on Embryo In Womb. It combines the flexibility of Lotus with a Full Forward Bend. This is not a pose for a beginner or someone with limited flexibility. Embryo In Womb takes Lotus pose with a difficulty of 3 to a difficulty of 7. To obtain the full mental and physical benefits of Embryo In Womb, listen to your body, and do not exceed your physical limits.

English Name: Embryo In Womb

Sanskrit Name: Garbha Pindasana

Difficulty Level: 7

Start Position: Seated Lotus

Instructions:

Step 1.

While sitting in Lotus pose, thread your arms under your calves.

Step 2.

Lift your legs off the floor while balancing on your buttocks.

Step 3.

Lift your legs into your chest and place your hands over your ears.

Step 4.

Remain in the pose as long as it feels comfortable and then release returning to Lotus pose.

Physical Benefits:

• Opens up the hips
• Improves knee flexibility
• Lubricates knee joint
• Relieve or prevent arthritis
• Tones abdominal muscles
• Improves digestion
• Tones back and shoulder muscles

Mental Benefits

• Focuses the mind
• Reduces stress
• Reduces anxiety
• Reduces mild depression

Contraindications:

• Low back, hip, knee, or ankle injury