Kapotasana: Gateway

Some asanas are what I call gateways to further asana variations and Kapotasana pigeon pose is one of those. "Resting Pigeon" as in this photo, is wonderful after strong standing asanas or it can be more dynamic with a back bend, so there are adaptations for the different levels of students in class. The full expression of this is is with the back knee bent and both hands holding the ankle, this pulls the energy up the body into the belly, requiring significant flexibility in the shoulders, upper spine, thighs and the hips and should always be followed by Balasana child pose. Kapotasana has a deep impact and benefit on our internal organs, which function automatically and independently without us being aware of them.