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Introduction – Vrishasana
The name Vrishasana is derived from the Sanskrit words “Vrusha” which means ‘Bull’ and “Asana” which we all know means ‘Pose’.
Vrishasana pose is excellent for Therapeutics for spinal disorders, joint pain, insomnia, Asthma and constipation. A person who performs this pose resembles the image of strength and stamina. The person is believed to have acquired the strength of a ‘bull’ and so this asana is called Vrushasana. Lack of strength or weakness in a young body is a sign of old age. This asana helps to preserve youthfulness in oneself.
Powers Of A Bull
Physical Powers
Bulls symbolises masculinity in the animal kingdom. They showcase leadership, helpfulness, dominance, determination, power and strengthening all their physical, mental and spiritual forms. Bulls are strong and massive animals which are also known for being unpredictable and aggressive at times. Because of their strong back and legs, bulls were one of the first animals to be domesticated by humans to help with agrarian – chores.The average speed of a bull is around 24 km/h. Bulls can live upto 18 -22 years.
Mental Powers
Bulls are strong headed animals and are also very adamant at times. They possess great endurance power and they are given to hold the ground until their given task is completed. Their mental endurance is such that they do not delay or stop working until and unless they achieve their goal. This masculine creature is also associated with traits like stamina, vitality, and fertility. A single bull can impregnate an entire herd of cows, which clearly symbolizes abundance. This kind of trait is quite rare in other animals.
Psychic Powers
Bulls are known to possess divine powers and strength according to many mythologies around the world. In ancient India, Greece, Mesopotamia, Rome, and Egypt, bulls were revered for the massive power it holds. According to many cultures, the bull represents masculinity, vitality, aggression, strength and fighting power.
Also Read: Nadi Shodhana: Meaning, Benefits, and the Process for Achieving Balance
How To Do The Vrishasana Asana
Overview & Steps of Vrishasana
- Bend the right leg at the knee and place the heel next to the left buttock.
- Place the left knee on the right knee in such a way that the left heel touches the right thigh.
- Sit erect and place the palm of the right hand on the knee.
- Then place the palm of the left hand on it.
- Breathe in the normal way.
- Direct your sight and attention to the navel.
Safety & Precaution To Prevent Injuries
- If people find discomfort in seating on seating bones then can use the blanket. This will help initially to support the pose as well.
- In case of Carpal tunnel syndrome problems people can keep the hands on the side.
Anatomy Of Vrushasana
In bull pose yoga the Scapula is widened apart which allows the palms to sit on knees at ease. Maintaining this pose requires a good amount of flexibility in hip region and quadriceps. If the hip joints are not sufficiently mobile, excessive torque can result in the knee joints. Great care should be taken to avoid any strain in the knees, because the menisci are most vulnerable when the knee joints are semiflexed
Preparatory And Follow Up Poses
Preparatory Asana –
- Malasana
- Vrikshasana
- Vajrasana
- Bhadrasana
Follow up Asana –
- Ardha Matsyendrasana
- Gomukhasana
Key Alignment Of Asana
Importance Of Breathing In Vrushasana
While performing Vrushasana, the breathing has to be long and deep. Due to the nature of the asana chest is not widened enough to acquire the optimum amount of oxygen therefore deep and long breathing will help to reach enough amount of oxygenated blood to all across the body. While performing the asana, one must remember to breathe into the areas of tightness. When the concentration is kept on maintaining a rhythmic breathing into the areas that are tight, one can feel the relief from tightness. This makes the person calmer and releases all tension from the area of concentration.
Process Of Meditation In Vrushasana
(Sthiram Sukham Asanam)
In this pose when you have achieved the stillness, you should mentally visualize the form of a bull and can become aware of its powers. At this point consciously you must shift your awareness from the physical and mental aspects to the visualization. See yourself emerging with the powers of a bull which are Determination, Virility, Fertility, and Perseverance.
Benefits Of Vrushasana
Physical Benefits of Vrishasana
- The Vrushasana pose helps stimulate blood circulation and makes the body more energetic and the mind more peaceful.
- It helps the respiratory system function in a proper way.
- It is used for treating diseases such as asthma, waste of semen, nocturnal discharge, lumbago, indigestion, gas trouble, insomnia, cardiac trouble, and dysentery.
- This pose helps in strengthening all the muscles of the body.
- It also alleviates joint pain, spinal disorders, and backache.
- This pose also helps lose weight.
- The bull pose also helps to preserve youth.
Psychological Benefits of Vrishasana
- This asana calms down the mind and body, relieving anxiety and stress that affect daily life.
- This pose makes the mind and the body stronger and more stable.
Mystical Benefits of Vrishasana
- This Pose is associated with the Power of Courage, Determination, Will and Broad Perception.
- This pose helps you cultivate a joyful mind.
- It helps balance the flow of energy inside the body thus helping the mind to rest in a happy and joyful state.
Also Read: The Healing Power of Bhramari Pranayama (Humming Bee)
Spiritual Benefits of Vrishasana
- Performing Vrushasana gives Confidence, Blissfulness, Learning Abilities and Wisdom which are the spiritual abilities that are activated through this pose.
- Practitioners may develop courage and the ability to bring in work-life balance (balance the work, family and society as well) and also recognize the importance of personal solitude in life. It helps you to realize your own true beauty which will unfold the ability to bridge new realms and new powers.
Contra-Indications of Vrishasana
- Avoid the Vrushasana pose if you have a knee and /or back injury.
- If you are suffering from a serious disease and health problem, it is recommended to avoid this pose.
- Pregnant women should avoid doing this pose.
Conclusion
Experience the transformative Vrishasana, a yoga pose embodying the strength of a bull. Incorporating this pose into your practice can lead to significant improvements in overall well-being. For those interested in deepening their yoga journey, consider enrolling in a yoga teacher training program. Rishikul Yogshala, a leading Certified Yoga School in Rishikesh, offers comprehensive courses like the 100 Hour Yoga Teacher Training, 200 Hour Yoga TTC in Rishikesh, 300 Hour Yoga Training, and 500Hr Yoga Teacher Training. These programs are designed to help you master your practice and share the transformative power of yoga with others.
