Learn crow pose – bakasana!

Raven Pose, or Bakasana, is a balancing asana that involves balancing on your hands. It requires strengthening your abdominal and arm muscles, as well as a lot of patience and faith, but performing it isn't as difficult as it may seem. Practicing it brings numerous health benefits and boosts self-confidence. Learn all about Raven Pose, which is considered a symbol of youth and happiness in Eastern countries.

A woman performing the crow pose (bakasana) in yoga, demonstrating balance and strength on an exercise mat

How to prepare and perform the Raven pose?

It's best to learn new poses under the guidance of an experienced instructor, who will demonstrate important technical elements of the asana, help you enter the pose, correct poor posture, and provide support. This reduces the risk of injury. Preparatory poses for Bakasana include Downward-Facing Dog and Bhujapidasana, which strengthens the arms.

A rubber yoga mat will be useful for practice, as it will provide stability and prevent shifting during the exercises. Also, remember to wear appropriate clothing. A fitted top or bodysuit is the best choice, as it won't fall over your face during inverted poses, which could distract you. Stretchy leggings will work perfectly with such a top. Remember that yoga clothing should be comfortable and allow for unrestricted movement.

Bakasana - step by step

Begin crow pose in Tadasana, a firm stance. Spread your feet slightly apart, and place your heels on the mat. Then, spread your knees further than hip-width apart and squat down. Your torso should be between your thighs. Extend your arms in front of you.

Place your hands on the mat with your fingers spread wide. You can also place your ankles underneath them to take pressure off your wrists and engage your forearm muscles more. Then, rest your knees on your arms, close to your armpits. Tighten your abs, rise onto your toes, and slowly shift your weight forward.

To begin with, you can do this without lifting your feet off the ground. Your gaze should be directed downward and focused on a single point. This will help you maintain balance. Take a deep breath, straighten your arms, and lift your feet. Try to overcome your fear of falling and hold the position for about 30 seconds to a minute.

A yogi on a sandy beach performs an advanced balance pose, resembling the Crow Pose (Bakasana). The woman, wearing a gray T-shirt and black leggings, her hair flowing in the wind, demonstrates strength and flexibility on a blue mat. The sea and blue sky in the background create an inspiring backdrop for a yoga practice. This dynamic pose illustrates the complexity and beauty of asanas, including Bakasana, combining elements of balance, strength, and concentration.

Benefits of practicing the Raven asana

Bakasana is a pose that boosts self-confidence and helps you overcome fears, which will have a positive impact on your entire life – you'll be better able to cope with problems both at work and in your personal life. You'll also find it easier to make new friends. Raven Pose stimulates the internal organs, improves digestion, and helps with indigestion.

It's crucial to perform it on an empty stomach or at least four hours after a meal. This asana helps develop balance. It also strengthens the arm and abdominal muscles, as well as the shoulders and wrists. It also stretches the upper back.

Contraindications to performing the crow pose

Crow Pose should not be performed by people with carpal tunnel syndrome or shoulder injuries. Pregnant women should also refrain from practicing this asana.

Crow Pose is an intermediate asana that requires preparation by strengthening the arm and abdominal muscles. It requires a lot of patience and practice, but once you master it, you'll feel immense satisfaction. Regular practice will bring many benefits. Get a suitable yoga mat and attire and learn Bakasana.