Ear Pressure Yoga Pose

Karnapidasana

Ear Pressure Yoga Pose
Ear Pressure Yoga Pose
overview

Ear Pressure Yoga Pose is an inversion pose that targets the shoulders and spine and is ideal for yogis and yoginis at an intermediate level.

visuddha – the throat chakra
related poses

intermediate | inversion | shoulders, spine

[yoga-sharrre]

[yoga-tags]

How To Do Ear Pressure Yoga Pose
  1. Begin by performing the Plow Pose (Halasana). When you have a stable base in your arms and shoulders, slowly bend your knees and lower them toward the floor. You may do them simultaneously or one at a time, whichever is easiest for you. Gently pull your knees toward the sides of your head, resting them next to your ears.
  2. Take a moment to evaluate your position. Your arms should still be stretched out on the floor from Plow Pose, your shoulders pressed firmly into the ground. Your shins should be parallel to and pressed against the floor, a straight line running from your knees to your ankles. Your feet should be spaced apart slightly, the tops of your feet resting on the floor. Apply very light pressure to your ears using your knees, quieting your surroundings and removing distraction.
  3. Take anywhere between 5-10 breaths, holding for 30-60 seconds if you feel comfortable. To come out of the position, straighten your legs to bring them back into the Plow Pose before lifting your legs up and pulling them back toward the ground. Lay in Corpse Pose (Savasana) for a few moments to relax your body and normalize the back.
Notes
  • Breathe deeply through each step. It may be difficult to take deep breaths when in the full pose; focus on taking consistent breaths, deepening them gradually.
  • Only attempt this asana if you are comfortable in the Plow Pose (Halasana).
  • Keep your neck lifted slightly off the ground in this pose; this will prevent you from putting stress on your neck.
  • This asana can put strain on the spine, causing injury if performed improperly. Starting out, it’s best to have a partner or instructor present to assist you through the steps.
  • Do not perform if you have diarrhea or if you are currently menstruating. If you are pregnant, only perform this position if you are experienced with it — do not attempt to learn while pregnant. Even if you are experienced, it’s recommended that you consult your physician.
  • Avoid if you have high blood pressure (hypertension), slipped disc or hernia.
Tips

If you would like extra neck support, try placing a folded blanket under your shoulders. This will allow your head to rest a few inches below your shoulders when you rest your head on the mat.

Stretches & Strengthens

All Muscles: Shoulders, hamstrings, calves, spine

Target Muscles: Shoulders, spine

Health Benefits of Ear Pressure Yoga Pose
  • Stimulates thyroid glands.
  • May help with diabetes.
  • Can ease constipation.
  • Helps relieve backache and headache.

Sanskrit Name & Meaning

Sanskrit Name & Meaning

Karnapidasana

(kar-na-pee-DAHS-anna)

karna: ear, earring, relating to the ear
pida: limitation, restriction, suffering
asana: posture

History & Mythology

History & Mythology


There’s gotta be some history or mythology on this pose! We’ve looked high and low and have only come up with this message. Perhaps you have some information or resource for us to explore?

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