YOGA ASANA: How To Do Lion Pose

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via Wikimedia Commons
Simhasana - Lion Pose

Introduction to Simhasana (Lion Pose)

In the ancient practice of yoga, certain postures are designed not just for the body but also to unlock emotional expression and mental clarity. One such dynamic and visually striking asana is Simhasana, known as the Lion Pose.

Derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Simha’, meaning lion, and ‘Asana’, meaning posture, Simhasana imitates the fierce, roaring stance of a lion — the king of the jungle.

Simhasana is not as physically challenging as some of the more intense yoga poses, but it carries immense power in its ability to release tension, unlock inner voice, stimulate facial muscles, and clear emotional blockages. It is often overlooked due to its unique appearance, but those who regularly practice Lion Pose often experience a noticeable difference in their breathing, vocal strength, and sense of confidence.

Let’s explore how to do Simhasana properly, the ideal time to practice it, its holistic benefits, and why this expressive posture deserves a place in your yoga practice.

How to Do Simhasana (Lion Pose)

Performing Simhasana might feel unusual at first, especially due to its facial and vocal expression. But once you embrace the technique, you’ll find it to be one of the most invigorating and liberating yoga postures.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Simhasana

Kennguru, CC BY 3.0,
via Wikimedia Commons
Simhasana - Lion Pose

Starting Position: Kneel Down
- Begin in a comfortable kneeling position (Vajrasana). Sit on your heels with your knees slightly apart (around hip-width).
- If you’re more flexible, you can perform the classical version by placing your buttocks on the inner arches of your feet, with your ankles crossed under your pelvis. This is the traditional version mentioned in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika.
Place Your Hands
- Lean slightly forward and place your palms flat on your knees or thighs.
- Spread your fingers wide, mimicking a lion's claws. Keep your arms straight and firm.
Spine and Chest Alignment
- Keep your spine upright, chest open, and shoulders relaxed but active.
- Take a few deep breaths here to settle into the pose.
Facial Expression
- Open your mouth wide.
- Stick your tongue out, stretching it toward your chin as far as possible.
- Gaze either:
  - At the tip of your nose (nasagra drishti), or
  - At the center of your eyebrows (bhrumadhya drishti), depending on tradition and comfort.
Simulated Roar (Lion’s Breath)
- Inhale deeply through the nose.
- Then exhale forcefully through the mouth, making a “haaaa” sound, like a lion’s roar.
- Let the breath come from deep within the abdomen or diaphragm.
Duration
- Hold the posture for 20–30 seconds, or for the length of your exhalation.
- Repeat the sequence 3–5 times, breathing normally in between each round.

Timing matters when it comes to maximizing the benefits of any yoga posture. Simhasana, being both energizing and expressive, is best practiced:

1. Early Morning (Brahma Muhurta)

Ideal time: Between 4:30 AM – 6:30 AM
Practicing Lion Pose during the pre-dawn hours helps to:
- Awaken your senses
- Clear the throat and respiratory passages
- Set a confident and courageous tone for your day

2. Mid-Morning or Midday

If early mornings are not ideal, you can do it mid-morning, preferably on an empty stomach.
Useful before a presentation, public speaking, or any event where clarity of voice and self-assurance are needed.

3. Evening (for Emotional Release)

For people with high stress, Simhasana can be performed in the evening to release pent-up emotions, particularly anger, anxiety, or fear.
Helps transition from a stressful day to a calmer state of mind.

⚠️ Avoid practicing Simhasana immediately after meals as the strong exhalation and pressure in the abdominal region might cause discomfort.

Physical, Mental, and Energetic Benefits of Simhasana

✅ 1. Strengthens the Respiratory System

Encourages deep, diaphragmatic breathing.
Helps clear the throat and respiratory tract.
Aids those with asthma, bronchitis, or minor breathing irregularities.

✅ 2. Stimulates the Throat Chakra (Vishuddha)

The Vishuddha chakra governs communication, expression, and authenticity.
Simhasana helps unlock this energy center, promoting truthful speech and confident expression.

✅ 3. Enhances Vocal Quality

By engaging the throat muscles and performing vocalized exhalation, Simhasana:
- Improves vocal clarity and projection
- Benefits singers, speakers, actors, and teachers

✅ 4. Tones Facial Muscles

Acts like facial yoga, reducing tension in:
- Jaw
- Cheeks
- Mouth
- Eyebrows
Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and sagging skin.

✅ 5. Relieves Stress and Suppressed Emotions

The act of roaring and opening up can be deeply therapeutic.
Releases anger, irritation, and inhibitions in a safe, structured way.

✅ 6. Boosts Confidence and Courage

By mimicking the king of beasts, you begin to embody the qualities of a lion:
- Boldness
- Courage
- Leadership
Excellent for those suffering from shyness, low self-esteem, or public speaking anxiety.

✅ 7. Activates the Platysma Muscle

This thin muscle at the front of the throat loses elasticity with age.
Regular practice of Simhasana helps tone and preserve this muscle, maintaining a youthful neck profile.

Simhasana in Yogic Philosophy and Scripture

Simhasana, often called Lion Pose, holds a significant place in classical yogic texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. More than just a physical posture, it's considered a mudra or symbolic gesture, embodying the profound power of sound, breath, and expression.

In various yogic traditions, sound (Nada) is revered as the very origin of creation. Simhasana powerfully channels this concept through its signature roaring exhale. This vigorous expulsion of breath and sound isn't merely an act; it's a transformative practice aimed at clearing inner blockages and aligning practitioners with their authentic voice. It's a bold expression that connects one to their primal energy and encourages uninhibited self-expression.

Who Can Practice Simhasana?

Simhasana is beginner-friendly and can be practiced by:

Children and adults
Elderly individuals (with minor modifications)
People recovering from stress or emotional trauma
Anyone looking to improve vocal strength or facial vitality

However, it should be avoided or modified if:

You have severe knee injuries or limited mobility in the legs
You’ve recently undergone throat surgery
You have vertigo or dizziness that worsens with forceful exhalation

Always consult a yoga instructor or medical professional before introducing any new posture into your routine.

Simhasana in Modern Wellness Practices

In today’s fast-paced digital age, many people hold tension in the face, jaw, and throat — often due to long hours of screen time, poor posture, or social inhibition. Simhasana serves as a dynamic antidote to:

Tech neck
Jaw clenching and bruxism
Social anxiety
Vocal strain from long video calls or speaking engagements

Even therapists and mental health coaches sometimes integrate Simhasana-inspired breathing into mindfulness and expressive therapy.

Simhasana Yoga Routine: Sample Practice

Here’s how you can incorporate Lion Pose into your routine:

Morning Practice (5–7 minutes)

Sit in Vajrasana
3 rounds of deep breathing
5 rounds of Simhasana (with rest in between)
Close with 2 minutes of silent meditation

Pre-Speech Routine (2 minutes)

Deep inhale
3 rounds of Lion's Breath with focused facial expression
Vocal warm-ups or humming
Walk into your speech or interview with confidence!

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via Wikimedia Commons
Mr-yoga-lion-pose-
in-garland-pose
Combining Simhasana with Other Yoga Poses

To enhance its effects, you can pair Simhasana with:

Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose): For grounding and digestive balance
Bhramari Pranayama (Humming Bee Breath): For vibration and calm
Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand): For throat stimulation
Jalandhara Bandha (Chin Lock): For Vishuddha chakra activation
Ujjayi Breath: To balance the nervous system

Conclusion: The Lion Within You Awaits

Simhasana is a powerful yet underrated yoga posture that goes far beyond the physical. It awakens your primal energy, reconnects you to your voice, and frees you from emotional stagnation. Its simplicity is deceptive — within its roar lies the key to emotional liberation, vocal strength, and inner courage.

Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, integrating Simhasana into your routine can unleash a vibrant, expressive, and fearless version of yourself.

So, the next time you're feeling muted, anxious, or just need a burst of energy — sit tall, open your mouth wide, and let your lion roar.