The Lion

In yoga certain postures introduced after the classical period are referred to as stretching exercises, warm-ups or limbering up exercises. They are extremely important as they warm the body making it more flexible and therefore avoiding accidents. The stretching exercises, also, prepare the body for deeper benefits from the asans themselves.

One of the exercises we do in our 6:00p. Tuesday class is called the lion (Simha Mudra). It is also referred to as the kali mudra. It is performed by sitting on the heels w/ knees together, hands resting on the knees, palms downward. Take a deep breath, stretch the fingers and feel energy pouring from your fingers to the earth. At the same time, the tongue is extended as far out and downward as possible while the eyes and mouth are open widely.  Hold for a few minutes and release.

Below I've posted a video of some adorable children demonstrating the lion.

This pose is easy to learn and has many benefits. A tremendous amount of blood is rushed to the face and neck, thereby strengthening the organs of the head. It strengthens the neck and tongue muscles, tones and relaxes the facial muscles. It brings blood to the fingers, allowing better circulation. It improves the digestive process. It also causes deeper normalization of the breathing mechanism. When the lion is practiced with other yoga techniques, it helps produce clarity of thinking and serenity of mind. In addition to the practical physical benefits of this pose, it is said that it brings greater dream perception.

The lion is one of the safest and most fun postures in yoga. Give it a try and feel the benefits for yourself. Roaring is optional. ;-)