Vamadevasana: More about the yoga exercise and its execution The name of this yoga exercise is a combination of the terms "Vamadeva" and "Asana." The focus is on the first part of the word, "Vamadeva." Loosely translated, this means something like "the beautiful god" or "a dear god." Historically, the term is particularly associated with an ancient rishi, although the name is also a byname of Shiva. It is said that this exercise can open the hips, thereby expelling negative energy and unnecessary weight from the body. Furthermore, when Vamadevasana is performed correctly, a specific tension is created in the pelvic area, thighs, and lower torso. Furthermore, the exercise is said to strengthen self-confidence and promote inner balance. The exercise itself is recommended for beginners, advanced practitioners, and experts alike.
Preparation and execution of Vamadevasana
The exercise is designed to promote lasting flexibility. This is particularly evident in the lower body, which is subjected to enormous strain in the Vamadevasana pose. It is therefore recommended that this yoga exercise not be inserted at the beginning of a routine, but rather in the middle of it. Otherwise, it is advisable to warm up thoroughly before the exercise. Everyone should pay attention to their own body signals and respond to them. It is perfectly normal for a strong tension to arise in the body during Vamadevasana. However, this tension should never become unbearable or cause acute pain. If necessary, it is advisable to stop the exercise a few seconds beforehand. Apart from the yoga mat, no other equipment is necessary for this exercise.
To begin, you should get into a squatting position, roughly in the middle of your mat. Your knees should point forward, as should your gaze, your hands should be on your thighs, and the soles of your feet should be facing your back. From this position, twist your left leg and pull it behind your body, while your right leg remains on the mat with your knee pointing forward. This creates a clearly noticeable twist in the hip area. Now bring your leg slightly back over your tailbone and then pull it up and forward so that your foot is roughly level with your left hip. Your toes should point upwards. At this point, your body is turned, so you can easily hold your left foot with your left arm.
Now use your left hand to "steer" your foot. You can lower and raise it several times. Find out for yourself which position in Vamadevasana is tense but not painful. Once you've found this position, secure your left foot to the left side of your body and use your left hand to pull your right foot up toward your left foot. The goal is for both soles of your feet to touch, while keeping your upper body upright. Direct your gaze forward and remain in this Vamadevasana position for several breaths. If you can manage it, you should stay in this position for at least half a minute. Always gaze forward, keep your shoulders straight, and balance your body weight primarily on your thighs and knees, with your feet touching.
After about 30 seconds to a full minute, you will leave the pose, return to your original position, and repeat the aforementioned steps with your right leg. Everything the left leg, left hip, and left hand just did will now be performed by their right counterparts. Once you have returned to Vamadevasana and the soles of your feet are touching, hold this position for half a minute to a full minute and then gently return to your original position.
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