All Poses
Bhujangasana (with hands on chair)Beginnerprone

Bhujangasana (with hands on chair)

भुजंगासन (संस्थित)

Bhujangasana, or cobra pose, is a gentle backbend that strengthens the back muscles and opens the chest. Using a chair provides support and reduces the intensity of the backbend, making it accessible for beginners. It improves spinal flexibility and posture.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

4
  • Back pain
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Pregnancy
  • Headache

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Straightening the arms fully — keep a gentle bend in the elbows
Lifting too high and compressing the lower back
Shrugging the shoulders toward the ears
Splaying the elbows outward
Clenching the buttocks tightly — keep them firm but relaxed

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

7 cues
  • 1Sit at the front edge of the chair with feet flat on the floor
  • 2Place the hands under the shoulders, elbows close to the body
  • 3Press the pubic bone and tops of the feet into the floor
  • 4Lift the chest using the back muscles, not pressing through the hands
  • 5Roll the shoulders back and draw the shoulder blades together
  • 6Keep the elbows slightly bent and close to the sides
  • 7Gaze forward and slightly upward — keep the back of the neck long

Pose Details

Pose Type

backbend

Body Focus

spinechestshoulders

Focus Areas

flexibilitystrengthbackbend

Best For

beginnersseniorsprenatalpostnataldesk workersplus size

Yoga Styles

iyengarhatharestorativeprenatal

When to Practice

warm uprestorativequick practice

Position

prone

Target Areas

DeltoidsAbsChest

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Bhujangasana, or cobra pose, is a gentle backbend that strengthens the back muscles and opens the chest. Using a chair provides support and reduces the intensity of the backbend, making it accessible for beginners. It improves spinal flexibility and posture.

How to Practice

1

1. Lie prone on the floor with your legs extended and feet hip-width apart.

2

2. Place a chair in front of you, positioning the seat so that your hands can comfortably reach it.

3

3. Place your hands on the chair seat, shoulder-width apart. Keep your elbows slightly bent.

4

4. Inhale and gently lift your chest off the floor, using the chair for support and leverage.

5

5. Roll your shoulders back and down, opening your chest and drawing your shoulder blades together.

5 more steps remaining

Register free to see the complete instructions

Register Free to Continue

Already registered? Login

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Bhujangasana (with hands on chair)

What is Bhujangasana (with hands on chair)?

Bhujangasana, or cobra pose, is a gentle backbend that strengthens the back muscles and opens the chest. Using a chair provides support and reduces the intensity of the backbend, making it accessible for beginners. It improves spinal flexibility and posture.

What are the benefits of Bhujangasana (with hands on chair)?

Strengthens back muscles. Opens the chest and shoulders. Improves spinal flexibility. Stimulates abdominal organs. Reduces fatigue and stress.

Who should avoid Bhujangasana (with hands on chair)?

Avoid this pose if you have: Back pain, Carpal tunnel syndrome, Pregnancy, Headache.

How many steps are in Bhujangasana (with hands on chair)?

Bhujangasana (with hands on chair) is practiced in 10 steps. Lie prone on the floor with your legs extended and feet hip-width apart.

Is Bhujangasana (with hands on chair) suitable for beginners?

Yes, Bhujangasana (with hands on chair) is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What props are needed for Bhujangasana (with hands on chair)?

You may use: chair, blanket. Props make the pose more accessible and comfortable.

What poses should I do before Bhujangasana (with hands on chair)?

Prepare with: Bhujangasana, Supta Tadasana, Supported Setu Bandha Sarvangasana, Bhujangasana (with Bolster Support). These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

Combine Bhujangasana (with hands on chair) with other poses