गोरक्षासन

Gorakṣāsana

Gorakṣa's Posture

Sources: Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā 1.53-54 · Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā 2.24-25

Classical Description

The Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā (1.53-54) describes:

“Place the ankles beneath the scrotum, the left ankle to the left and the right to the right. Take the feet firmly with the hands, which are at the sides. Motionless, with the gaze fixed on the tip of the nose, this is Gorakṣāsana, as the yogis teach.”

The Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā adds that the heels should firmly press the perineum, thus closing the lower openings of the body.

Technique

  1. Sit with legs extended
  2. Bend the legs and place the soles of the feet together
  3. The heels are brought toward the perineum, pressing it
  4. The ankles are positioned on each side of the perineum
  5. Take the feet with the hands, holding them firmly
  6. The spine remains erect
  7. Fix the gaze at the tip of the nose (nāsāgra dṛṣṭi)
  8. Remain motionless, concentrated

Benefits According to the Texts

The texts attribute to Gorakṣāsana:

  • Conservation of vital energy (bindu)
  • Prevention of vīrya (vital potency) loss
  • Awakening of Kuṇḍalinī
  • Stability for prolonged meditation
  • Control over the functions of the lower organs
  • Longevity and maintenance of youth

Notes

This āsana bears the name of the legendary Gorakṣanātha (Gorakhnath), considered the founder of the Nātha Sampradāya and systematizer of Haṭha Yoga. It is one of the most important āsanas for the conservation of subtle energy according to tantric texts. It shares similarities with Siddhāsana and Bhadrāsana, all focused on stabilizing the perineum and lower energy centers.