Definition - What does Salamba Bhujangasana mean?
Salamba bhujangasana is a yoga pose for beginners that opens the chest and shoulders, and strengthens the spine. The name of this asana comes from the Sanskrit salamba, meaning "supported," bhujanga, meaning "cobra," and asana, meaning "pose."
To enter this asana, lie on the stomach with the forearms flat on the floor and the legs together. On an inhale, the forearms press into the floor while the chest and head are lifted. With the pubic bone pressed into the floor, the shoulders drop back as the chest presses forward and the gaze moves up to the third eye.
Salabma bhujangasana is commonly referred to as sphinx pose in English.
Salamba bhujangasana is a gentle backbend, suitable for most beginners. It is a modification of bhujangasana, or cobra pose, and can be a good alternative for people who have lower back trouble. This pose invigorates the body, soothes the nervous system and is therapeutic for fatigue. It is a preparatory pose for deeper backbends.
In a spiritual practice, salamba bhujangasana is also a gentle heart opener. It stimulates the anahata, or heart chakra, located at the heart center. In yoga, it is believed that opening this chakra helps to increase Self-love, alleviate depression and support a more positive outlook on life.
Salamba bhujangasana should not be practiced on the floor by those who are pregnant or have very stiff spines or shoulders. Instead, it can be practiced against a wall while standing.