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Beginnerseated

Variations (1)

Simhasana II

सिंहासन II

Simhasana II, or Lion Pose II, is a unique seated pose known for its therapeutic roar that releases tension in the face and throat. It stimulates the platysma muscle, improves vocal clarity, and helps to relieve stress and frustration, making it a great tension reliever for beginners.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

6

Avoid If

5
  • Acute knee pain (from sitting in Vajrasana)
  • Jaw injury or severe TMJ issues
  • Recent throat or facial surgery
  • Migraine (for some, the exertion might trigger it)
  • High blood pressure (practice gently, avoid over-exertion)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rounding the lower back — sit on a folded blanket if needed
Forcing the knees down — let gravity work naturally
Collapsing the chest and slouching forward
Tensing the neck and jaw
Rushing into the pose without proper alignment first
Forcing the hips open beyond their current range
Holding tension — allow complete release in the supported position

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

7 cues
  • 1Sit on the front edge of your sitting bones
  • 2Lengthen the spine upward on each inhalation
  • 3Keep the chest lifted and shoulders relaxed
  • 4Ground down through the sitting bones
  • 5Maintain an elongated spine — avoid rounding the back
  • 6Allow the hip joints to open gradually — never force
  • 7Surrender the weight of the body to the props and the floor

Pose Details

Helps With

anxietydepressionneck paindigestive problemsstress relief

Pose Type

restorativehip opener

Body Focus

facethroatchesthips

Focus Areas

relaxationbreathingflexibilitystrength

Best For

beginnersseniorskidsteens

Yoga Styles

iyengarhathakundalini

When to Practice

warm upcool downrestorativequick practice

Position

seated

Modify If You Have

knee injury

Sit on a bolster or block between the feet to reduce knee flexion, or sit cross-legged (Sukhasana).

jaw injury

Avoid sticking the tongue out forcefully; focus on the breath and eye gaze.

neck pain

Keep the head in a neutral position, avoid straining the neck while roaring.

Target Areas

NeckAdductorsQuads

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Simhasana II, or Lion Pose II, is a unique seated pose known for its therapeutic roar that releases tension in the face and throat. It stimulates the platysma muscle, improves vocal clarity, and helps to relieve stress and frustration, making it a great tension reliever for beginners.

How to Practice

1

1. Sit in Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose), with knees together and feet splayed behind, toes together and heels slightly apart. Place a blanket under your hips if needed.

2

2. Place your hands on your knees, with fingers pointing towards your body (specific to Simhasana II).

3

3. Inhaling, lengthen the spine and lift the chest.

4

4. Exhaling, open your eyes wide and gaze between your eyebrows. Stick your tongue out as far as possible, curling it towards your chin.

5

5. Exhale forcefully through the mouth with a 'Haaa' sound, mimicking a lion's roar from the throat. This roar should come from the belly, not just the throat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Simhasana II

What is Simhasana II?

Simhasana II, or Lion Pose II, is a unique seated pose known for its therapeutic roar that releases tension in the face and throat. It stimulates the platysma muscle, improves vocal clarity, and helps to relieve stress and frustration, making it a great tension reliever for beginners.

What are the benefits of Simhasana II?

Relieves tension in face, jaw, and throat. Stimulates platysma muscle (neck and chin). Improves vocal clarity and projection. Reduces stress, frustration, and anxiety. Stimulates thyroid and parathyroid glands. Enhances confidence and self-expression.

Who should avoid Simhasana II?

Avoid this pose if you have: Acute knee pain (from sitting in Vajrasana), Jaw injury or severe TMJ issues, Recent throat or facial surgery, Migraine (for some, the exertion might trigger it), High blood pressure (practice gently, avoid over-exertion).

How many steps are in Simhasana II?

Simhasana II is practiced in 9 steps. Sit in Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose), with knees together and feet splayed behind, toes together and heels slightly apart. Place a blanket under your hips if needed.

Is Simhasana II suitable for beginners?

Yes, Simhasana II is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What props are needed for Simhasana II?

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

What conditions does Simhasana II help with?

Simhasana II is therapeutic for: anxiety, depression, neck pain, digestive problems, stress relief.

What poses should I do before Simhasana II?

Prepare with: Seated Tadasana, Baddha Konasana, Neck Rolls. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

Combine Simhasana II with other poses