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Makarasana-Crocodile Pose : 5 Benefits, Steps, Precautions, Contraindications & Variations Explained

Makarasana, commonly known as the Crocodile Pose, is one of the most important restorative and therapeutic asanas in Hatha Yoga. Derived from Sanskrit:

Makarasana imitates the relaxed, grounded, steady posture of a crocodile floating effortlessly. This pose promotes deep relaxation, spinal decompression, and parasympathetic nervous system activation, making it one of the most effective poses for:

Makarasana is not merely a relaxation posture—when performed correctly, it becomes a powerful meditative, therapeutic, emotional, and pranic reset for the entire body.

makarasana
Makarasana-Crocodile Pose : 5 Benefits, Steps, Precautions, Contraindications & Variations Explained 1

It is widely used in:

This posture teaches your body how to rest consciously, something that modern lifestyles have deeply disrupted.

⭐ 1. Historical & Scriptural Background of Makarasana

Even though Makarasana appears prominently in modern Yoga Therapy, its philosophical roots come from ancient classical yogic texts.

1.1 Gheranda Samhita

In the chapter describing relaxation and grounding practices, Makarasana is referenced as a posture that brings:

The text explains that relaxation is essential for deeper stages of meditation.

1.2 Hatha Yoga Pradipika

While not named directly, the principles of Sthirati (steadiness), Sukham (comfort), and Shithilikarana (relaxation) are emphasized, which are the core of Makarasana.

Forward bends and backbends often require a “counterpose,” and Makarasana is one of the main póses described for releasing spinal tension.

1.3 Upanishadic Symbolism — The Makara Archetype

In Vedic and Upanishadic literature, Makara is not merely a crocodile—it is a profound archetype representing the hidden depths of human consciousness. Dwelling in still waters, the makara symbolizes deep inner silence, the state where the mind becomes calm enough to perceive subtle truths. Its grounded, unmoving presence reflects rootedness and stability, qualities essential for spiritual growth. As a creature of primal instinct and raw life force.

The makara embodies Kundalini Shakti resting at the base of the spine, holding immense potential yet remaining dormant until awakened. Its quiet strength and alert watchfulness signify instinctive protection and inner resilience, teaching practitioners that true power often lies not in movement or aggression, but in stillness, awareness, and silent endurance. Makarasana mirrors these qualities by inviting the body and mind into deep rest, where healing and inner awakening naturally unfold.

The crocodile rests deeply yet remains alert—a perfect metaphor for pratyahara (withdrawal of senses).

1.4 Tantric Symbolism

Makara is linked to Muladhara Chakra and Swadhisthana Chakra, both governing:

Thus, Makarasana allows deep internal release of stored tension.

⭐ 2. Scientific Anatomy & Biomechanics

Makarasana is clinically used as a spinal decompression and diaphragmatic breathing posture.

Makarasana is widely used in clinical and therapeutic settings because its prone, relaxed position gently releases pressure from the lumbar spine while encouraging deep diaphragmatic breathing. This combination helps decompress vertebrae, reduce muscular tension, improve oxygenation, and support natural healing of back and respiratory disorders.

2.1 Muscles Relaxed

2.2 Joints Relaxed

2.3 Organ Systems Affected

2.4 Physiological Mechanisms

✔ Spinal decompression

Lying prone with support under the chest gently releases pressure from lumbar vertebrae.

✔ Improved diaphragmatic movement

Chest elevation allows deep, low-pressure breathing.

✔ Low heart rate and blood pressure

Parasympathetic activation reduces:

✔ Reduced muscle spasms

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⭐ 3. Step-by-Step Technique for Makarasana

As a restorative posture, Makarasana invites the body into gentle, effortless alignment where no muscles are forced to work. The emphasis is on ease and natural relaxation, allowing breath, prana, and the nervous system to settle into a healing state.

✔ Step 1: Lie Down in a Prone Position

This releases tension from lower back.

✔ Step 2: Create a Pillow with Your Arms

Option A (classic Makarasana):

Option B (relaxed version):

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Makarasana-Crocodile Pose : 5 Benefits, Steps, Precautions, Contraindications & Variations Explained 2

✔ Step 3: Lift Chest Slightly

Raise your chest a few inches so the diaphragm is free.

This encourages deep belly breathing.

✔ Step 4: Close Eyes and Relax Entire Body

Release tension from:

✔ Step 5: Breathe Slowly and Deeply

Focus on:

Stay for:

✔ Step 6: Exit Slowly

⭐ 4. Benefits of Makarasana

Makarasana offers some of yoga’s most profound therapeutic benefits by combining deep muscular relaxation with optimal breathing mechanics. The posture gently decompresses the spine, soothes the nervous system, improves diaphragmatic efficiency, and calms emotional tension. Its restorative nature makes it highly effective for managing back pain, stress disorders, fatigue, insomnia, and respiratory challenges.

4.1 Physical Benefits

⭐ 1. Relieves Back Pain and Spinal Tension

Makarasana decompresses:

Beneficial for:

⭐ 2. Improves Breathing Capacity

Elevating chest and freeing diaphragm improves:

Helpful for:

⭐ 3. Reduces Neck & Shoulder Stiffness

This posture allows neck muscles to release naturally. this posture softens the cervical region by allowing prana to flow freely through the upper spine. As the body settles into effortless relaxation, the neck muscles naturally unwind, releasing stored tension and subtle energy blockages, creating openness along the Vishuddhi Chakra pathway.

⭐ 4. Massages Abdominal Organs

Enhances digestion and relieves bloating.

⭐ 5. Helps in Hernia Prevention

Gentle diaphragmatic breathing strengthens core.

⭐ 6. Improves Blood Circulation

Relaxation expands blood vessels, improving circulation.

⭐ 7. Supports Heart Health

Reduces heart rate and blood pressure.

4.2 Mental & Emotional Benefits

⭐ 8. Reduces Stress & Anxiety Immediately

Makarasana is one of the quickest ways to:

⭐ 9. Deep Emotional Release

Releases emotional tension stored in:

⭐ 10. Improves Sleep Quality

Recommended for insomnia.

⭐ 11. Helps in PTSD and Trauma Recovery

Used in trauma-sensitive yoga.

4.3 Energetic & Chakra Benefits

⭐ 12. Balances Muladhara Chakra (Root Chakra)

Creates grounding and safety.

⭐ 13. Activates Swadhisthana Chakra

Releases emotional blockages.

⭐ 14. Strengthens Manipura Chakra

Deep breathing boosts energy flow.

⭐ 15. Calms the Entire Pranic Field

Prana stabilizes; Apana Vayu flows correctly.

⭐ 5. Precautions Before Doing Makarasana

⭐ 6. Contraindications

Avoid or practice with care if you have:

❌ Pregnancy
❌ Recent abdominal surgery
❌ Severe asthma attack
❌ Heart surgery recovery
❌ Very low blood pressure
❌ Facial paralysis (if chin pressure is uncomfortable)
❌ Ulcer or severe acidity
❌ Hip fracture

⭐ 7. Variations & Modifications

⭐ 1. Forehead Rest Variation

Forehead on arms — ideal for seniors.

⭐ 2. Chest Lift Variation

Chest elevated on bolster for deeper breathing therapy.

⭐ 3. Leg Massage Variation

Alternating leg movements for spinal release.

⭐ 4. Advanced Makarasana Breathing

Long exhalations + belly breathing + hold.

⭐ 5. Supported Crocodile Pose

Bolster under chest for spinal relief.

⭐ 8. Common Mistakes & Corrections

❌ Lifting chest too high

✔ Keep it gentle; allow belly to expand.

❌ Tightening shoulders

✔ Relax completely.

❌ Forcing breath

✔ Breathe naturally.

❌ Keeping legs too close

✔ Keep them hip-width or wider.

❌ Holding tension in jaw

✔ Release jaw, tongue, and eyes.

⭐ 9. Therapeutic Uses (Yoga Therapy)

Makarasana is a prescribed posture for:

Many doctors and therapists use this asana as a restorative prescription due to its immediate calming effects.

⭐ 10. Ayurveda Perspective

Balances:

🍃 Vata Dosha

Deeply grounding and relaxing.

🔥 Pitta Dosha

Cools internal heat.

💧 Kapha Dosha

Reduces lethargy and stagnation.

Improves:

⭐ 11. Symbolic Meaning of Makarasana

The crocodile symbolizes:

Makarasana teaches:

It is a pose of silence, introspection, repair, and rejuvenation.

⭐ 12. Conclusion

Makarasana (Crocodile Pose) is one of the most essential therapeutic and restorative postures in yoga. It:

This is not just a rest position—Makarasana is a deep healing technique, ideal for yoga therapy, pranayama preparation, meditation, and daily relaxation.

Practiced regularly, it offers profound transformation of the:

It is one of the best poses for modern lifestyles filled with stress, screens, and fatigue.