Master King Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)
The King Pigeon Pose, or the Royal Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana), is an intermediate to advanced level yoga backbend pose. In this pose, the chest is fully opened like a pigeon. Eka means one, Pada is leg or foot, and Kapota is a pigeon. Rajakapota means the king of pigeons. Hence the name of the pose.
The Benefits of One-Legged King Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana) and Backbend
Practising backward bends brings great steadiness to the body, giving an excellent backward opening to the spine and strengthening the back muscles. Backwards Bends cure pain and discomfort due to poor postures, including hunchback, round shoulders, Teck Neck (also known as “text neck” or “screen neck”), back pain etc.
King Pigeon includes all the benefits of the backbend and also includes the following,
The posture stretches the shoulders deeply, allowing the joints to explore mobility, including the shoulder joints, elbow, wrist and small joints at the fingers.
Stretches the vertebral column and the muscles along the spine.
The posture stimulates hormonal secretions of the body, particularly those from the thyroid.
The hip muscles are stretched with an external hip opener in the front leg.
Overall, the One-Legged King Pigeon is an incredible pose that opens the body deeply from head to toe. The opening effect on a backward bend and hip opening is beneficial to regulate modern-day poor postures.
Backwards Bends cure pain and discomfort due to poor postures, including hunchback, round shoulders, Teck Neck (also known as “text neck” or “screen neck”), back pain etc.
The Preparation and Counter Pose of One-Legged King Pigeon (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)
One-Legged King Pigeon is a deep backward bend, and advanced yogis can go deep into the pose. Before attempting the pose, make sure you properly warm up your body and joints. Prepare your body for sufficient shoulder-opening sequence and spinal mobility movement. >> Practice On YouTube: 30 mins Shoulders and Spinal Mobility
Counter Pose: Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
Come out from the pose slowly with steady breathing. After the pose, counter the practice with gentle twisting or forward bend. The counter poses include the following,
Head-To-Knee Pose (Janu Sirsasana)
Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana) - Click HERE to Practice on YouTube
FOUR Tips To Master One-Legged King Pigeon (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)
Always keep in mind that practising yoga is not just about physical performance but also about the linkage between the mind and soul. Connecting with your mind and breath is vital when practising advanced yoga posture.
You must train your mind to concentrate and be conscious with every breath. These are the foundations for safe and effective practice.
Be Patient. Rotate your shoulder properly to grip.
Listen to your body. Align your spine to open your chest.
Centre your mind. Find your perfect balance.
Connect with your soul. Breathe and explore.
Keep up the practice, and let me know how it goes. Email me at info@cloudcyoga.com. I am always excited to read your emails.
Sending Peace and Love as always,
from Cloud @ CloudC Yoga. :-)
