Supine Asana · Intermediate (Level 3) · Catalog #800430

Bhairavasana Bhairavasana

Reclined with one leg cradled behind the head and the hands at the heart.

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Bhairavasana (Bhairavasana) — Supine Yoga Posture Illustration

Bhairavasana (Bhairavasana) — Supine posture targeting Hip Flexors, Hamstrings, Glutes · Slow and even breath · Eyes closed drishti.

Vāta: Neutral (0) Pitta: Neutral (0) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Bhairavasana
Posture Family
Supine
Difficulty
Intermediate (Level 3)
Recommended Hold
30 seconds
Breath Pattern
Slow and even
Drishti (Gaze)
Eyes closed
Target Muscles
Hip Flexors, Hamstrings, Glutes
Energy Expenditure
2.8 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Bhairavasana

Bhairavasana (Bhairavasana) belongs to the Supine posture family and engages the Hip Flexors, Hamstrings, Glutes at an intensity of approximately 2.8 METs. Reclined with one leg cradled behind the head and the hands at the heart.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain Slow and even throughout the 30-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Eyes closed to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Hip Flexors, Hamstrings, Glutes.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 18 years (216 months).

Ayurvedic Dosha Profile (Vāta, Pitta & Kapha)

In Ayurvedic asana sequencing (Dosha Provenance: modern-synthesis), every posture shifts Vata, Pitta, and Kapha according to its mechanical compression, heat generation, and grounding stability:

  • Vāta Effect: Neutral (0) — pair with slow nasal breathing and unhurried transitions to prevent excess mobility or dryness.
  • Pitta Effect: Neutral (0) — keep the jaw, temples, and abdomen soft when holding for 30 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Pacifies (-1) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

  • Hamstring strain
  • Sacroiliac injury

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