Dvitīyopadeśaḥ (Āsana) · Verse 57
मकरासनमाख्यातं महापातकनाशनम् | तत्प्रकारं प्रवक्ष्यामि शृणु त्वं कमलानने ||
makarāsanam ākhyātaṃ mahāpātakanāśanam | tatprakāraṃ pravakṣyāmi śṛṇu tvaṃ kamalānane ||
Makarāsana — the crocodile posture. The makara is the sea creature, symbol of the aquatic elements, of fertility, and of perseverance.
“Destroyer of great sins.” The crocodile posture, practiced with dedication, has the power to transform deep karma. It is a posture of regeneration.
The crocodile floats apparently motionless while swimming efficiently beneath the surface. So must practice be: apparent stillness with constant internal activity.