Backbend Asana · Elementary (Level 2) · Catalog #800420

Grivasana Neck Pose Grivasana

A supported neck arch with the crown grounded and the shoulders lifted. To be entered very slowly.

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Grivasana Neck Pose (Grivasana) — Backbend Yoga Posture Illustration

Grivasana Neck Pose (Grivasana) — Backbend posture targeting Traps, Chest, Back · Slow and even breath · Backward drishti.

Vāta: Pacifies (-1) Pitta: Neutral (0) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Grivasana
Posture Family
Backbend
Difficulty
Elementary (Level 2)
Recommended Hold
30 seconds
Breath Pattern
Slow and even
Drishti (Gaze)
Backward
Target Muscles
Traps, Chest, Back
Energy Expenditure
2.0 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Grivasana Neck Pose

Grivasana Neck Pose (Grivasana) belongs to the Backbend posture family and engages the Traps, Chest, Back at an intensity of approximately 2.0 METs. A supported neck arch with the crown grounded and the shoulders lifted. To be entered very slowly.

  • 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 Backward to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Traps, Chest, Back.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 8 years (96 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 30 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Pacifies (-1) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

  • Neck injury
  • High blood pressure

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