Knee To Ear Pose
Knee To Ear Pose
I always thought this pose was simply a deeper version of Plough Pose. Only recently I learned it has its own name, and unique benefits worth mentioning.
If this is a pose you want to explore, please read the Plough Pose post first, as all of those concepts and precautions apply here.
*NOTE*—this posture poses risks to the neck and cervical spine. I would not practice it if you have had spinal surgery, metal pins placed anywhere in your spine, or neck issues.
Knee To Ear Pose should always come after Plough.
Both of these poses are a nice follow to Supported Shoulder Stand.
Hamstrings should be open; the entire body should be warmed up.
Like with Bridge pose, there is weight on the head and neck so do not turn your head in the pose. Come out slowly.
With all those warnings, one might wonder – what do you like about this pose, Catherine?
I find it fantastically opens my thoracic spine and back of the heart. I often feel a warming sensation flow through my spine when I practice this. I have to do it warmed up, with reverence and patience though, just as I advise.
ALIGNMENT
From Plough Pose, soften the knees.
They may hover at first. Just stay here and breathe. (You may be here for weeks or months; it does not matter).
Resist the urge to go deeper.
Gravity may eventually lower your knees to the floor, or your spinal flexibility will.
Once knees can rest on the ground, place them gently along the ears.
BENEFITS
Improves overall spinal flexibility
Improves shoulder flexibility
Improves circulation
Massages digestive organs and improves digestion
Relieves fatigue
Supports thyroid function
If you are looking for safer and more accessible ways to open your Thoracic spine, this is a topic of which I have made many posts, and videos!
Posture Refresh with a Strap
Posture Refresh with a Towel
T-Spine Mobility Video
Yoga For The Back Body
Questions about yoga? Feel free to contact me here.
Namaste,
Catherine
(Visited 46 times, 1 visits today)
Catherine Tingey
Entrepreneur, yogini, designer, award-winning filmmaker, personal trainer and former marathon runner. She left a career in finance to start her own business and along the way, became a yoga teacher. She has been practicing yoga for 33 years and teaching privately for 13 years.
About the Author
Catherine Tingey+ Entrepreneur, yogini, designer, award-winning filmmaker, personal trainer and former marathon runner. She left a career in finance to start her own business and along the way, became a yoga teacher. She has been practicing yoga for 33 years and teaching privately for 13 years.
Related Posts
Yoga For The Back Body →
SUPPORTED BRIDGE POSE →
BRIDGE POSE (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana) →
