Cakravakasana
Definition - What does Cakravakasana mean?
Cakravakasana is a simple kneeling pose that improves balance and tones the abdominal muscles. The name comes from the Sanskrit, cakravaka, which means “ruddy goose” or “sunbird”; and asana, meaning “pose.” In Hindu mythology, the cakravak is a reddish bird that appears at sunrise, bringing warmth and light.
To practice cakravakasana, begin on hands and knees with the back parallel to the ground, then one leg raises and extends back at hip level, while the opposite arm extends forward at shoulder level.
In English, this posture is known as sunbird pose or balancing table pose.
Yogapedia explains Cakravakasana
Cakravakasana is sometimes used to describe balancing cat pose, cat pose and even cat-cow pose, but marjaryasana is the Sanskrit term that directly translates as “cat pose” and describes the cat version of the posture in which the corresponding leg and arm extend rather than the opposites.
In addition to its physical benefits, cakravakasana is believed to:
- Enhance concentration
- Build confidence
- Increase focus
As a core-strengthening pose, it is also thought to balance the manipura (solar plexus) chakra, which is associated with willpower, self-esteem, confidence, self-discipline and personal power.
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