Simhasana - The Lion

Starting Position: Vajrasana

Concentration: on the relaxation of the muscles during the Aahhh-sound

Breath: coordinated with the movement

Repetitions: up to 10 times

Practice: Sit in Vajrasana. The toes can be tucked under or stretched. The knees are slightly apart. >Place the hands on the knees and straighten the arms. >Inhaling deeply through the nose raise the shoulders slightly. >Exhaling strongly through the mouth, press the hands firmly onto the knees and spread the fingers wide apart. Open the eyes wide and look up. Stretch the tongue out and vocalise a “Lion's roar” – a loud, open “Aahhh”. >Ensure the Aahhh-sound comes from the abdomen, not from the throat.

Benefits: The Asana exercises the vocal cords and diaphragm and as such is very good for singers. It is recommended for people with speech impediments and is also beneficial for ear, nose, throat, and mouth problems.

After this exercise relax in Anandasana.