Forward Bend Asana · Elementary (Level 2) · Catalog #800375

Rabbit Pose Sasangasana

Kneeling and rolling onto the crown with the heels held, creating deep spinal flexion.

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Rabbit Pose (Sasangasana) — Forward Bend Yoga Posture Illustration

Rabbit Pose (Sasangasana) — Forward Bend posture targeting Lower Back, Traps, Shoulders · Slow and even breath · Navel drishti.

Vāta: Neutral (0) Pitta: Pacifies (-1) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Sasangasana
Posture Family
Forward Bend
Difficulty
Elementary (Level 2)
Recommended Hold
30 seconds
Breath Pattern
Slow and even
Drishti (Gaze)
Navel
Target Muscles
Lower Back, Traps, Shoulders
Energy Expenditure
2.2 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Rabbit Pose

Rabbit Pose (Sasangasana) belongs to the Forward Bend posture family and engages the Lower Back, Traps, Shoulders at an intensity of approximately 2.2 METs. Kneeling and rolling onto the crown with the heels held, creating deep spinal flexion.

  • 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 Navel to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Lower Back, Traps, Shoulders.
  • 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: Neutral (0) — 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

  • Neck injury
  • Disc injury

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