Forward Bend Asana · Intermediate (Level 3) · Catalog #800322

Both Legs Behind Head Dwi Pada Sirsasana

Both legs crossed behind the head while balanced on the sitting bones.

Practice Both Legs Behind Head (Dwi Pada Sirsasana) 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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Both Legs Behind Head (Dwi Pada Sirsasana) — Forward Bend Yoga Posture Illustration

Both Legs Behind Head (Dwi Pada Sirsasana) — Forward Bend posture targeting Hamstrings, Hip Flexors, Lower Back · Slow and even breath · Forward drishti.

Vāta: Neutral (0) Pitta: Neutral (0) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Dwi Pada Sirsasana
Posture Family
Forward Bend
Difficulty
Intermediate (Level 3)
Recommended Hold
30 seconds
Breath Pattern
Slow and even
Drishti (Gaze)
Forward
Target Muscles
Hamstrings, Hip Flexors, Lower Back
Energy Expenditure
3.0 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Both Legs Behind Head

Both Legs Behind Head (Dwi Pada Sirsasana) belongs to the Forward Bend posture family and engages the Hamstrings, Hip Flexors, Lower Back at an intensity of approximately 3.0 METs. Both legs crossed behind the head while balanced on the sitting bones.

  • 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 Forward to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Hamstrings, Hip Flexors, Lower Back.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 20 years (240 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
  • Neck injury
  • Disc injury

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