Virasana ~ Hero’s Pose


Asanas stretch and open the body in ways that prepare the student to sit mindfully and comfortably during pranayama and meditation. For this reason, the practise of seated and kneeling asanas seems imperative as they encourage; the spine to elongate, the muscles supporting the spine to be strengthened, flexibility to develop in the hips, knees and ankles. All of which encourage greater ease and comfort to arise when sitting for pranayama and meditation practises.

Virasana (or hero’s pose):

• Strengthens the arches and stretches through the tops of one’s feet
• Stretches the ankles, knees and thighs. Provides a deep bend in the knee
• Gives an internal rotation of upper legs
• Opens hip joints, rotating the joints in a different direction to most asanas
• Reduces swelling in the legs during pregnancy (particularly 2nd trimester)
• By opening up and lengthening through the abdomen, this asana is able to improve digestion, relieve gas, and help alleviate cramping associated with menstruation.
• Therapeutic for high blood pressure, as it alters circulation
• Expanding through the thoracic cavity is therapeutic for asthma
  

Written by: Rachael Freeland

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