RABBIT POSE | SASANGASANA
As we hop into Easter it only seems fitting to have Rabbit Pose (Sasangasana) as our Pose of the Month!
It's a beautiful round and soft shape that stretches the neck and upper spine, and has a relaxing effect on the nervous system. It's also like a mini inversion as you are on the very top of your head so is a great alternative to shoulderstand or headstand.
You can come into the pose from a high kneeling position with the knees hip width apart and bowing the head forward so that the very top of your crown comes down to the floor just in front of your knees and then reaching your hands towards your heels. For some it may feel better starting from Child's Pose holding the heels first and then lifting the hips up and then placing the head on the floor. It's up to you if you want to tuck the toes under or just have the front of the feet on top of the floor. If holding your heels isn't available you can hold onto your calves or ankles with your hands instead.
See if you can try and bring your thighs so they are nearly vertical and remember to not place too much weight on your head to keep your neck safe. Expand the back of the shoulders and feel the gorgeous stretch along the upper back. Breathe a little deeper into that space for up to five breaths. You may even want to come into Throat Lock (Jalandhara Bandha).
If you're feeling discomfort you can always place a blanket underneath the knees or the head.
To get out of the pose gently release your hips towards your heels and let go with your hands and either slowly come up into Thunderbolt Pose or rest down into Child's Pose.