Standing Asana · Beginner (Level 1) · Catalog #800282

Hip Circles Kati Chakra

Circling the pelvis in both directions with the feet planted. Mobilises the hip before deeper opening.

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Hip Circles (Kati Chakra) — Standing Yoga Posture Illustration

Hip Circles (Kati Chakra) — Standing posture targeting Hip Flexors, Glutes, Lower Back · Natural breath · Forward drishti.

Vāta: Pacifies (-1) Pitta: Pacifies (-1) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Kati Chakra
Posture Family
Standing
Difficulty
Beginner (Level 1)
Recommended Hold
30 seconds
Breath Pattern
Natural
Drishti (Gaze)
Forward
Target Muscles
Hip Flexors, Glutes, Lower Back
Energy Expenditure
2.2 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Hip Circles

Hip Circles (Kati Chakra) belongs to the Standing posture family and engages the Hip Flexors, Glutes, Lower Back at an intensity of approximately 2.2 METs. Circling the pelvis in both directions with the feet planted. Mobilises the hip before deeper opening.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain Natural 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 Hip Flexors, Glutes, Lower Back.
  • 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 30 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Pacifies (-1) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

No specific classical contraindications recorded for healthy adults; always practice within pain-free range of motion.

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