In yin yoga there are many poses that offer benefit to both the body and the mind. One of the staples is the butterfly pose; also knows as “Baddha Konasana” or the “Bound Angle Pose.” Practice of the butterfly pose unlocks many advantages including improved flexibility, relaxation and positive energy flow. The simple act of sitting in butterfly pose cultivates a profound connection between the mind and the body.
How to practice the Butterfly Pose:
1. Get into a seated position, extending your legs in front of you.
2. Bend your knees and bring together the soles of your feet, letting your knees fall outward.
3. Gently pull your feet nearer to your pelvis, feeling the hips and inner thighs stretch.
4. Keep your spine straight, engage your core while breathing mindfully and deeply.
5. Settle into the pose, letting your knees go downward as you focus on relaxation; don’t force it, allow your body to reach comfort organically.
6. Hold the pose for at least 3 minutes.
Benefits of Butterfly Pose:
1. Deep hip opening: experience gentle stretching of the inner thighs, groin and hips. This allows for enhanced flexibility and tension release.
2. Digestion and circulation boost: Aid digestion and blood flow with targeted pressure on the abdominal region, promoting digestive health.
3. Lower back pain relief: Alleviate lower back discomfort by creating space and relieving tension in the lumbar area.
4. Mind Relaxation: Embrace the meditative aspect of yin yoga through butterfly pose, breathing deeply to induce a calm state of mind.
5. Energy harmonization: Targeting the inner thighs and groin area balances the body’s energy flow along meridian lines.
Remain patient and self-aware as you practice yin yoga poses. Concentrate on bringing awareness to how your body feels as you work toward balance and attaining inner peace.