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Thunderbolt Pose
वज्रासनVajrāsanaవజ్రాసనం
Kneeling with the buttocks resting on the heels. The one asana that can be practised immediately after eating — in fact the only one that should be.
Meaning of the name
Vajra is the thunderbolt, and also the name of the nāḍī running through the spine. The pose is named for both.
How to practise
- 1
Kneel with the knees together and the big toes touching, heels apart.
- 2
Sit back so the buttocks rest between or on the heels.
- 3
Place the palms on the thighs, spine upright, chin level.
- 4
Breathe normally. Sit for five to ten minutes after a meal, or longer for meditation.
- 5
If the ankles complain, place a folded blanket under them; if the knees complain, put a cushion between heels and buttocks.
Benefits
- Aids digestion directly — the only asana recommended immediately after eating
- Relieves acidity, gas and the heaviness of a large meal
- Strengthens the pelvic floor and improves circulation to the abdominal organs
- Eases sciatic pain and lower back discomfort for many people
- Provides a stable, alert meditation seat for those who cannot sit cross-legged