Backbend Asana · Beginner (Level 1) · Catalog #800310

Camel to Child Flow Ustrasana-Balasana

Alternating between camel and child's pose. Backbend and counterpose in one breath cycle.

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Camel to Child Flow (Ustrasana-Balasana) — Backbend Yoga Posture Illustration

Camel to Child Flow (Ustrasana-Balasana) — Backbend posture targeting Hip Flexors, Chest, Lower Back · With the breath breath · Varies drishti.

Vāta: Pacifies (-1) Pitta: Neutral (0) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Ustrasana-Balasana
Posture Family
Backbend
Difficulty
Beginner (Level 1)
Recommended Hold
60 seconds
Breath Pattern
With the breath
Drishti (Gaze)
Varies
Target Muscles
Hip Flexors, Chest, Lower Back
Energy Expenditure
2.8 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Camel to Child Flow

Camel to Child Flow (Ustrasana-Balasana) belongs to the Backbend posture family and engages the Hip Flexors, Chest, Lower Back at an intensity of approximately 2.8 METs. Alternating between camel and child's pose. Backbend and counterpose in one breath cycle.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain With the breath throughout the 60-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Varies to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Hip Flexors, Chest, Lower Back.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 5 years (60 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: Neutral (0) — keep the jaw, temples, and abdomen soft when holding for 60 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Pacifies (-1) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

  • Knee injury
  • Neck injury

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