सिंहासन

Siṃhāsana

Lion Posture

Sources: Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā 1.50-52 · Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā 2.14-15

Classical Description

The Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā (1.50-52) describes:

“Place the ankles beneath the perineum, crossed, the right ankle to the left and the left to the right. Place the palms on the knees with fingers extended. Open the mouth and fix the gaze at the tip of the nose, with mind concentrated. This is Siṃhāsana, venerated by the best yogis.”

Technique

  1. Sit on the heels with ankles crossed beneath the perineum
  2. Place the palms firmly on the knees, fingers spread like claws
  3. Lean the torso slightly forward
  4. Open the mouth widely
  5. Stick the tongue out toward the chin
  6. Open the eyes gazing at the point between the eyebrows or tip of the nose
  7. Exhale with a “ha” sound emerging from the throat

Benefits According to the Texts

Siṃhāsana:

  • Destroys diseases
  • Facilitates the three main bandhas
  • Cleanses the throat and tongue
  • Stimulates viśuddha chakra
  • Is venerated by the most elevated yogis
  • Combines āsana with facial expression and sound

Notes

The name derives from siṃha (lion). The posture imitates the roar of a lion: open mouth, tongue out, fierce gaze. It is unique among classical āsanas for including a specific facial expression and sound. In modern times it is used for throat problems and to release facial tension.