Veerasana – The Hero’s Pose

Veerasana or the Hero’s Pose comes from the Sanskrit words ‘Veera’ which means a Hero or a Warrior and ‘Asana’ which means a Pose. Veerasana is called the Hero’s or a Warrior’s pose and can be used an alternate pose for meditation and contemplation. Veerasana is a relatively easy posture, but those suffering from knee and ankle pain should avoid it.

How to do Veerasana (The Hero’s Pose)?

• First assume the Vajrasana pose. This is the starting pose for performing Veerasana. Vajrasana is the simple kneeling pose. Sit on the floor or the yoga mat with legs stretched in front of you with the hands on the sides. Then fold the legs one by one and place it under the buttocks. Place the hands on top the thighs. This is Vajrasana or the basic kneeling pose. This forms the starting point for doing Veerasana.
• Lift the right leg and place the foot on the floor in line with the left knee.
• Place the right elbow on the right knee and support the weight of the head using your right palm. The chin should rest on the right palm.
• The left palm should be placed on the left knee.
• Close your eyes and relax your whole body.
• This is the final Veerasana pose. Concentrate on your steady breath for a while. This pose can be used for contemplation and deep thinking.
• Remain in this pose as long as you are comfortable.
• To release the pose, bring back the right hands to the right knees and go back to the original position of Vajrasana.
• The whole process can be repeated with your left knee raised up and with your left hands supporting the chin.

 Benefits of Veerasana (The Hero’s Pose)

• Veerasana can be used an alternate pose for meditation and deep thinking.
• It strengthens the thigh muscles, the knees and the ankle joints. But those already suffering from knee and ankle pain should avoid this asana.
• It gives some of the benefits of Vajrasana like improved digestion.