Yoga Chikitsa · Primary · Finishing Sequence
Pindasana
Embryo
What it is
Pindasana, embryo pose, follows Urdhva Padmasana directly.
What it looks like
From upward lotus, you fold the crossed legs down toward the chest and wrap the arms around them. The body becomes a small, rounded shape resting on the shoulders. It is held for several breaths.
Why it is practised
It is a compact, quiet shape that completes the inverted part before the counterpose. Together with upward lotus, it is the most compact part of the inverted sequence. The breath tends to feel shorter in this shape, so the focus is on keeping it smooth and unhurried. After a few breaths you lower down and move straight into the fish.
What to pay attention to
Keep the breath slow and the neck free. If lotus is not available, hug the knees to the chest instead.
Who it suits
Students comfortable in upward lotus.
Next in the sequence: Matsyasana.
The lotus folds in toward the torso while still inverted.
Practise this Primary pose in a Mysore-style room, or in a private session in Dubai or online.
See session formats, upcoming dates and the shala, or book a place with Ashtanga Yoga Dubai.