What is King Pigeon Pose (Rajakapotasana) and its Benefits?

Yoga has many styles each with unique approach. Some poses are beginner friendly and some are challenging pose. King Pigeon Pose (Rajakapotasana) is one of the advanced level pose. Yoga is not about the physical workout but also the way to connect our inner soul. When you achieve the advanced level pose, it will helps to boost your confidence. You will prepare to face the challenges of the life. King Pigeon Pose is also that type of pose. It is the reclining back bending posture. Here we explore in deep what is the King Pigeon Pose (Rajakapotasana).

What is the King pigeon Pose (Rajakapotasana)

King Pigeon Pose is also known as the Rajakapotasana. It is the advanced level of Pigeon Pose. It is reclining back bending asana. This Pose helps align the pelvis and spine, improving overall posture and reducing lower back pain. This is great pose for reversing the poor posture by stretching the spine and back.

Rajakapotasana is come from the sanskrit language where, Raja means, “king”, Kapot means, “Pigeon” and Asana means, “posture or seat”. Therefore, this asana is known as King Pigeon Pose. The pigeon or dove is also often seen as a symbol of the soul, purity, and spiritual transformation. Rajakapotasa,  as a symbol of leadership or royalty that is balanced by gentleness, humility, and a peaceful nature.

How to Perform Rajakapotasana?

King Pigeon Pose, which is a popular posture in yoga. This asana is an advanced hip opener and backbend that requires flexibility and strength.

Here is the steps of how to perform this asana:

  1. To start this yoga pose, stand up straight on the floor.
  2. Then, bend forward and place the palms on the floor.
  3. Extend the left leg back and lunge on the right leg.
  4. turn the right angle inward and position the outer right thigh on the floor.
  5. The right heel should be adjacent to the left groin.
  6. Bend the left leg and grasp it with the left hand.
  7. Raise the right hand and grasp the toes of the left leg with both the hands.
  8. slowly bend the head back and position it inside the arch of the left foot.
  9. Breathe softly throughout the pose.
  10. Hold this pose for few seconds according to your comfort zone.
  11. Now, slowly release the posture and relax.

What are the Benefits of King Pigeon Pose (Rajakapotasana)?

There are huge mental and physical benefits of King Pigeon Pose. It is the best asana to stretch the spine and relieve the lower body pain.

Here are some of the benefits of King pigeon pose (Rajakapotasana):

  • Stretches the Hip Flexors and Glutes: Rajakapotasana is an excellent stretch for the hip flexors. It also targets the glutes, promoting flexibility and reducing tension in the lower back and hips.
  • Improves Flexibility in the Spine and Shoulders: This pose helps open up the chest, stretch the shoulders, and increase flexibility in the spine. It will helps to improves the posture.
  • Strengthens the Spine: As a backbend, this pose helps to strengthen the muscles along the spine, promoting better spinal alignment and stability.
  • Opens the Chest and Improves Lung Capacity: The backbend opens the chest and lungs, allowing for better breathing and improved oxygen intake. This will improve the respiration process.
  • Stretches the Abdominals and Front Body: By arching the back and lifting the chest, stretches the abdominal muscles. It will help to improving flexibility in the front body.
  • Relieves Sciatica and Lower Back Tension: The deep hip opening in this pose can provide relief for people suffering from sciatica and lower back pain It helps to release the tightness in the hips.
  • Reduces Stress and Anxiety: This asana release the tension to the nervous system and helps to reduce the stress. The back bending posture help to relax the body and calms the mind.
  • Stimulates the Digestive System: The deep stretch in the abdomen and chest can massage the digestive organs. It will improve digestion and relieving issues such as constipation or bloating.
  • Increases Circulation: By stretching the entire front body and back, it helps to promotes the blood circulation in the body. King Pigeon pose helps to encourages the nervous system and have a calming effect on the parasympathetic nervous system when practiced with breath awareness.