Hip Opener Asana · Beginner (Level 1) · Catalog #800267

Chair Pigeon Kapotasana (chair)

Ankle crossed over the opposite knee while seated. The figure-four hip opener for chairs and desks.

Practice Chair Pigeon (Kapotasana (chair)) 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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Chair Pigeon (Kapotasana (chair)) — Hip Opener Yoga Posture Illustration

Chair Pigeon (Kapotasana (chair)) — Hip Opener posture targeting Glutes, Hip Flexors · Slow and even breath · Forward drishti.

Vāta: Pacifies (-1) Pitta: Pacifies (-1) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Kapotasana (chair)
Posture Family
Hip Opener
Difficulty
Beginner (Level 1)
Recommended Hold
60 seconds
Breath Pattern
Slow and even
Drishti (Gaze)
Forward
Target Muscles
Glutes, Hip Flexors
Energy Expenditure
1.6 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Chair Pigeon

Chair Pigeon (Kapotasana (chair)) belongs to the Hip Opener posture family and engages the Glutes, Hip Flexors at an intensity of approximately 1.6 METs. Ankle crossed over the opposite knee while seated. The figure-four hip opener for chairs and desks.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain Slow and even throughout the 60-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 Glutes, Hip Flexors.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 3 years (24 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: Pacifies (-1) — 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

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