Revolved Camel Pose has many of the same benefits that traditional Camel Pose. Your lumbar spine is mobilized by the backbend, while your thoracic spine is mobilized by twisting. It expands the chest and stretches your hip flexors. Camel Pose, like all backbends is a great alternative to sitting for long periods of time.
Camel Pose can be a great way to release emotions. Our bodies store our emotions. Many people spend their days hunched over computers, tables, and countertops. Sometimes emotions can rise to the surface when we stretch our shoulders and chests in an opposite direction. Although it might be annoying for yoga classes to have this happen, it is actually a good thing.
BENEFITS FROM REVOLVED CAML POSE
40 years ago was the first time I tried Ustrasana (Camel Pose). I couldn’t wait for it to end. I hadn’t done any backbends in years. My entire front body felt like it was falling apart that first time. Worst, I couldn’t catch breath. As my body became more flexible, I started to enjoy Camel Pose. My body eventually became able to perform the full version of Camel Pose. This involved bending backwards, placing my forearms on a floor, and then grabbing my feet. Yikes!
In years past, I have not done the “full” position and I don’t intend to do it again. It’s not something I find enjoyable or necessary to push my body to the limits. Sometimes I still enjoy Ustrasana the traditional way. It is still a favorite of many of my students. Recent years have been a great time for me to practice and teach a Camel variation, Parvrta Ustrasana (Revolved Camel Pose).
Revolved Camel Pose can be described as a backbend with a twist. It can be used as an alternative to the traditional Camel Pose. The twist of the pose prepares you for the intense Camel backbending.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR REVOLVED CAMERA POSE
Before you begin any backbend, it is important to warm up. These are some of the poses that will prepare you for Revolved Camel Pose.
- Warm up the Shoulders by Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations).
- Stretch the Abdomen Bhujangasana Cobra Pose, Salabhasana Locust Pose
- Lengthen the Quadriceps: Anjaneyasana (Lunge Pose), Ardha Virasana (Half Hero Pose)
- Expand the Chest Salamba Matsyasana SUPPORTED Fish Pose
- Twist: Parvrtta Anjaneyasana (Revolved Lunge Pose)
CAUTIONS TO PARVRTTA USTRASANA
Parvrtta Ustrasana might not be suitable for everyone. If you are suffering from high blood pressure, fatigue, or other health issues, please avoid this pose. These are other contraindications and cautions from Yoga Journal.
- If you feel pain or pinching in your lower back, stop using it.
- If you are suffering from shoulder pain, shoulder arthritis or other injuries, avoid or modify this medication.
- If you are experiencing back pain, injuries or other issues, avoid or modify your treatment.
- Most people find it best to not drop your head in this position, especially if you are suffering from a neck injury, stroke, or other serious health concerns. To stabilize your head, lift your chin slightly. You can draw your chin towards the chest.
- If you have injuries to your shoulders or pain in the pose, avoid or modify it.
HOW TO PRACTICE REVOLVED
- Grab your props: Mat, 4-Inch Block.
- With your legs extended straight back, place your Yoga Mat on your knees. Place the tallest Yoga Block next to your right foot.
- As if to lengthen your low-back, place your right hand on the rim of your pelvis.
- Keep your left arm extended in front of your head.
- Keep your pelvis above your knees and lean your upper torso back. Then, place your right hand on the block.
- If you don’t feel much stretch, turn your block so it’s at medium height. You can also place your right hand on the right heel or ankle of your right foot.
- Your head should be in a comfortable position. Your neck and head should follow the path of your spine.
- You can take 5-8 deep breaths. Next, press your shins down to lift yourself back into a kneeling position.
- You can either sit down in Vajrasana (Lightning Bolt Pose) or kneel for a few minutes. You can rest between your sides and tune into your body to notice any changes in your energy or breathing.
- Repeat the process on the opposite side.