SI
Beginnerkneeling

Simha Pranayama

सिंह प्राणायाम

Simha Pranayama (Lion's Breath) — forceful exhale with tongue out, releasing facial and throat tension.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

1
  • TMJ disorder (gentle only)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Placing excessive pressure on the kneecaps without padding
Letting the hips shift forward of the knees
Collapsing the lower back
Tensing the shoulders and neck
Ignoring pain in the knees or ankles — use props or modify
Holding tension — allow complete release in the supported position

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

6 cues
  • 1Place padding under the knees if needed for comfort
  • 2Align the hips directly above or behind the knees
  • 3Keep the spine long and the chest lifted
  • 4Press the tops of the feet or toes firmly into the floor
  • 5Engage the core to support the lower back
  • 6Surrender the weight of the body to the props and the floor

Pose Details

Helps With

anxietyneck pain

Pose Type

restorative

Body Focus

neck

Focus Areas

relaxationbreathing

Best For

beginnersseniorsdesk workers

Yoga Styles

hathakundalini

When to Practice

warm upmorning

Position

kneeling

Target Areas

HeadAbs

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Simha Pranayama (Lion's Breath) — forceful exhale with tongue out, releasing facial and throat tension.

How to Practice

1

1. Sit in Vajrasana.

2

2. Palms on knees, fingers spread.

3

3. Deep inhale.

4

4. Open mouth wide.

5

5. Stick tongue out — toward chin.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Simha Pranayama

What is Simha Pranayama?

Simha Pranayama (Lion's Breath) — forceful exhale with tongue out, releasing facial and throat tension.

What are the benefits of Simha Pranayama?

Releases jaw and face tension. Clears throat. Reduces stress instantly. Fun and energizing. Good for public speakers.

Who should avoid Simha Pranayama?

Avoid this pose if you have: TMJ disorder (gentle only).

How many steps are in Simha Pranayama?

Simha Pranayama is practiced in 10 steps. Sit in Vajrasana.

Is Simha Pranayama suitable for beginners?

Yes, Simha Pranayama is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What conditions does Simha Pranayama help with?

Simha Pranayama is therapeutic for: anxiety, neck pain.

What poses should I do before Simha Pranayama?

Prepare with: Bharmanasana (Table top pose), Adho Mukha Virasana (Child's Pose). These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

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Build Your Own Sequence

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