Supta Baddha KonasanaBeginnersupine

Supta Baddha Konasana

सुप्त बद्ध कोणासन

Supta Baddha Konasana, Reclined Bound Angle Pose, is a deeply restorative supine hip opener. Lying on the back with the soles of the feet together and knees falling open, the practitioner surrenders to gravity's gentle pull on the inner thighs. Often practiced with bolsters and blankets for support, this pose opens the groins, releases the pelvic floor, and induces a profoundly calm state. It is a cornerstone of restorative yoga.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

2
  • Groin or knee injury (support knees with blocks)
  • Lower back pain (use bolster under spine)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Lifting the shoulders toward the ears — keep them relaxed
Flattening the natural curve of the lower back
Tensing the facial muscles and jaw
Holding the breath
Forcing the legs into position rather than using props for support
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
  • 1Press the back of the head gently into the floor
  • 2Keep the lower back in its natural curve
  • 3Relax the shoulders away from the ears
  • 4Soften the facial muscles and jaw
  • 5Breathe deeply into the belly
  • 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

flexibilityanxietyinsomniamenstruationpcod

Pose Type

hip openerrestorative

Body Focus

hipslower body

Focus Areas

flexibilityrelaxation

Best For

beginnersseniorsprenatalpostnataldesk workersplus size

Yoga Styles

iyengaryinrestorative

When to Practice

cool downrestorativeevening

Position

lying

Modify If You Have

groin injury

Support knees with blocks or bolsters, maintain a wider angle.

knee injury

Support knees with blocks or bolsters, place feet further away.

hip injury

Support knees and reduce the angle of the legs.

pregnancy

Use more props, elevate the upper body, and maintain a wider angle.

sciatica

Support knees and avoid a deep opening.

Target Areas

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Supta Baddha Konasana, Reclined Bound Angle Pose, is a deeply restorative supine hip opener. Lying on the back with the soles of the feet together and knees falling open, the practitioner surrenders to gravity's gentle pull on the inner thighs. Often practiced with bolsters and blankets for support, this pose opens the groins, releases the pelvic floor, and induces a profoundly calm state. It is a cornerstone of restorative yoga.

How to Practice

1

1. Lie on your back.

2

2. Bend your knees and keep your feet flat on the floor.

3

3. Gently let your knees fall open to the sides, bringing the soles of your feet together.

4

4. Rest your arms slightly away from your sides, palms facing up.

5

5. Relax your lower back and keep your spine grounded on the floor.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Supta Baddha Konasana

What is Supta Baddha Konasana?

Supta Baddha Konasana, Reclined Bound Angle Pose, is a deeply restorative supine hip opener. Lying on the back with the soles of the feet together and knees falling open, the practitioner surrenders to gravity's gentle pull on the inner thighs. Often practiced with bolsters and blankets for support, this pose opens the groins, releases the pelvic floor, and induces a profoundly calm state. It is a cornerstone of restorative yoga.

What are the benefits of Supta Baddha Konasana?

Opens the groins and inner thighs passively. Releases the pelvic floor muscles. Stimulates the abdominal organs. Reduces stress and fatigue. Therapeutic for menstrual discomfort and menopause.

Who should avoid Supta Baddha Konasana?

Avoid this pose if you have: Groin or knee injury (support knees with blocks), Lower back pain (use bolster under spine).

How many steps are in Supta Baddha Konasana?

Supta Baddha Konasana is practiced in 10 steps. Lie on your back.

Is Supta Baddha Konasana suitable for beginners?

Yes, Supta Baddha Konasana is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What props are needed for Supta Baddha Konasana?

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

What conditions does Supta Baddha Konasana help with?

Supta Baddha Konasana is therapeutic for: flexibility, anxiety, insomnia, menstruation, pcod.

What poses should I do before Supta Baddha Konasana?

Prepare with: Supta Tadasana, Apanasana. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

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