Backbend Asana · Intermediate (Level 3) · Catalog #800437

Viparita Chakrasana Viparita Chakrasana

Tipping over from wheel into a standing position, or the reverse. A dynamic backbend transition.

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Viparita Chakrasana (Viparita Chakrasana) — Backbend Yoga Posture Illustration

Viparita Chakrasana (Viparita Chakrasana) — Backbend posture targeting Back, Shoulders, Glutes · Even ujjayi breath · Floor drishti.

Vāta: Neutral (0) Pitta: Increases (+2) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Viparita Chakrasana
Posture Family
Backbend
Difficulty
Intermediate (Level 3)
Recommended Hold
10 seconds
Breath Pattern
Even ujjayi
Drishti (Gaze)
Floor
Target Muscles
Back, Shoulders, Glutes
Energy Expenditure
5.0 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Viparita Chakrasana

Viparita Chakrasana (Viparita Chakrasana) belongs to the Backbend posture family and engages the Back, Shoulders, Glutes at an intensity of approximately 5.0 METs. Tipping over from wheel into a standing position, or the reverse. A dynamic backbend transition.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain Even ujjayi throughout the 10-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Floor to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Back, Shoulders, Glutes.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 20 years (240 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: Increases (+2) — keep the jaw, temples, and abdomen soft when holding for 10 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Pacifies (-1) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

  • Low back injury
  • Shoulder injury
  • Neck injury
  • High blood pressure

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