Backbend Asana · Intermediate (Level 3) · Catalog #800440

Bhujangasana Full Bhujangasana (full)

The full cobra with the arms straight, the head reaching back and the feet approaching the crown.

Practice Bhujangasana Full (Bhujangasana (full)) with Illustrated Cues & Breath Timer Open this posture in Ayurveda & Asana Yoga on iPhone & iPad to build custom dosha sequences and track MET energy burn.
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Bhujangasana Full (Bhujangasana (full)) — Backbend Yoga Posture Illustration

Bhujangasana Full (Bhujangasana (full)) — Backbend posture targeting Back, Lower Back, Quads · Even ujjayi breath · Backward drishti.

Vāta: Pacifies (-1) Pitta: Mildly Increases (+1) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Bhujangasana (full)
Posture Family
Backbend
Difficulty
Intermediate (Level 3)
Recommended Hold
20 seconds
Breath Pattern
Even ujjayi
Drishti (Gaze)
Backward
Target Muscles
Back, Lower Back, Quads
Energy Expenditure
4.0 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Bhujangasana Full

Bhujangasana Full (Bhujangasana (full)) belongs to the Backbend posture family and engages the Back, Lower Back, Quads at an intensity of approximately 4.0 METs. The full cobra with the arms straight, the head reaching back and the feet approaching the crown.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain Even ujjayi throughout the 20-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Backward to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Back, Lower Back, Quads.
  • 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: Pacifies (-1) — pair with slow nasal breathing and unhurried transitions to prevent excess mobility or dryness.
  • Pitta Effect: Mildly Increases (+1) — keep the jaw, temples, and abdomen soft when holding for 20 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Pacifies (-1) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

  • Low back injury
  • Neck injury

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