Here are the steps on how to the lion yoga pose:
1. Start in a comfortable seated position, such as easy pose or cross-legged position, with your spine tall and your hands resting on your knees or thighs. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. As you exhale, feel your shoulders relax and your jaw soften.
2. As you inhale, bring your hands to your heart center, with your palms pressed together and your elbows pointing outwards. Exhale and open your mouth wide, sticking out your tongue as far as you can towards your chin, while simultaneously stretching your fingers wide and pointing them towards the floor. This is the first variation of the pose, also known as Lion’s Breath or Simha Mudra.
3. If you want to deepen the pose, you can take it to the next level by also squeezing your eyes shut, as you exhale forcefully through your mouth, making a loud “ha” or “roar” sound. Imagine that you are expelling any negative thoughts, emotions, or toxins from your body, and inspiring yourself with courage, confidence, and joy.
4. Try doing 2-3 rounds of Lion’s Breath or Lion’s Roar, taking a few regular breaths in between each round. You can repeat this as often as you like throughout your yoga practice, or as a standalone exercise to refresh your mind and spirit.
Benefits of Lion Yoga Pose:
1. Releases tension and stress: Lion yoga pose can help you release tension and stress from your face, neck, and shoulders, where many people hold their stress. It can also relieve headaches, neck pain, and eye strain, by increasing blood flow and oxygenation to those areas.
2. Improves breathing and voice: Lion yoga pose can enhance your breathing capacity and endurance, by expanding your lungs and activating your diaphragm. It can also strengthen your voice, by exercising your vocal cords and improving your articulation.
3. Boosts confidence and presence: Lion yoga pose can awaken your primal power and self-expression, by reminding you of your innate strength, courage, and creativity. It can also help you overcome shyness, fear, and self-doubt, by encouraging you to speak up and stand out.
4. Stimulates digestion and immunity: Lion yoga pose can stimulate your digestive and immune systems, by massaging your abdominal organs and lymph nodes, and flushing out toxins and pathogens. It can also help you relax and sleep better, by calming your nervous system and reducing anxiety and insomnia.
In conclusion, the lion yoga pose is a simple and effective way to add some fun and playfulness to your yoga practice, while also boosting your physical, mental, and emotional health. By embodying the spirit of the lion, you can tap into your inner warrior and roar with confidence, creativity, and joy. Give it a try and see how it makes you feel!