Camel Pose with Blocks, also called Double Block Camel is a classical yoga posture. Its Sanskrit name Ustrasana with Blocks translates word-for-word as: Ustra (Camel) · Asana (Pose). Beginning from a kneeling position, the practitioner aligns the body with precision and intentional breath. The posture works to strengthen the quadriceps and open the chest. Blocks reduce backbend depth. Builds confidence. It is particularly valued for improving overall posture and developing greater flexibility. Suitable for beginners and regular practitioners alike, it is a meaningful addition to any practice, particularly beneficial for beginners. A block can be used to make the posture more accessible and support correct alignment. Practitioners with neck pain should approach with care or consult a qualified teacher.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

4

Accessible camel for beginners
Blocks reduce backbend depth
Builds confidence
Iyengar method
Full anatomical benefits — muscles, joints, organs →

Avoid If

2

Neck Injury / Cervical Issues
Looking up, bearing head weight, or unsupported neck rotation can compress cervical vertebrae and irritate nerves.
Do not allow the head to drop back unsupported; keep the chin slightly tucked and look forward rather than up.
Back Injury / Back Pain
Spinal flexion, extension, or rotation under load can compress vertebral discs or strain the paraspinal muscles.
Limit the depth of the backbend, engage the core actively before moving, and avoid any movement that creates pinching in the lumbar spine.

Props That Can Help

Optional supports — use when helpful, not required

Yoga Block

Rest the hands on blocks to begin opening the chest and shoulders before progressing toward full hand-to-floor contact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✕Dropping the head back without control — keep the neck long initially

✕Pushing the hips forward past the knees — stack hips over knees

✕Compressing the lumbar spine — lead with the chest, not the lower back

✕Squeezing the buttocks too tightly — firm but not clenched

✕Holding the breath — breathe steadily throughout

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

7 cues

1Place the block at an appropriate height for your flexibility
2Kneel with knees hip-width apart, thighs perpendicular to the floor
3Place hands on the sacrum with fingers pointing down
4Lift the sternum strongly toward the ceiling before arching back
5Press the shins and tops of the feet firmly into the floor
6Keep the hips directly above the knees — do not push them forward
7Reach for the heels only when the chest is fully open

Pose Details

Helps With

posture correctionflexibility

Pose Type

backbend

Body Focus

spinechest

Focus Areas

flexibility

Best For

beginners

Yoga Styles

iyengarhatha

When to Practice

peak pose

Position

kneeling

Practice Flow

US

This pose

Apanasana

Supta Matsyendrasana I (Supine Spinal Twist)

Adho Mukha Virasana (Child's Pose)

Savasana

How to Practice

1

1. Kneel.

2

2. Place two blocks (tallest) beside feet.

3

3. Hands on lower back.

4

4. Inhale, lift chest.

5

5. Exhale, lean back.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Ustrasana with Blocks

What is Camel Pose with Blocks?

Camel Pose with Blocks, also called Double Block Camel is a classical yoga posture. Its Sanskrit name Ustrasana with Blocks translates word-for-word as: Ustra (Camel) · Asana (Pose). Beginning from a kneeling position, the practitioner aligns the body with precision and intentional breath. The posture works to strengthen the quadriceps and open the chest. Blocks reduce backbend depth. Builds confidence. It is particularly valued for improving overall posture and developing greater flexibility. Suitable for beginners and regular practitioners alike, it is a meaningful addition to any practice, particularly beneficial for beginners. A block can be used to make the posture more accessible and support correct alignment. Practitioners with neck pain should approach with care or consult a qualified teacher.

What are the benefits of Camel Pose with Blocks?

Accessible camel for beginners. Blocks reduce backbend depth. Builds confidence. Iyengar method.

Who should avoid Camel Pose with Blocks?

Avoid this pose if you have: Neck injuries, Lower back pain (severe).

How many steps are in Camel Pose with Blocks?

Camel Pose with Blocks is practiced in 10 steps. Kneel.

Is Camel Pose with Blocks suitable for beginners?

Yes, Camel Pose with Blocks is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What props are needed for Camel Pose with Blocks?

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

What conditions does Camel Pose with Blocks help with?

Camel Pose with Blocks is therapeutic for: posture correction, flexibility.

What poses should I do before Camel Pose with Blocks?

Prepare with: Camel Pose, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Bhujangasana, Setu Bandhasana. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Camel Pose with Blocks