Virasana, a Hatha Yoga style, is a Sanskrit word which means Hero Pose, here Vira means ‘hero’ and asana means ‘pose’. As we all know through cinema and books, that a hero is somebody who is known for fighting for the right things, for the good over bad. The conventional definition of a hero is that of a protector. On the other hand, in the world of Yoga, yogic hero safeguards himself by overcoming the inner turmoil.

It is a basic level Meditative pose and should be practiced on an empty stomach early in the morning or late evening. In case you have taken the meals, it’s alright! join the practice 3-4 hours after having your meal but do make sure that your bowels are clean to go. You need to hold the pose for like 60 seconds. Virasana will help stretch your knees, thighs, and ankles.

Steps to do Virasana/Hero Pose?

• Kneel on the floor and make sure that you place your ankles directly under your hips.
• Keep both the knees together, and your hands should rest over your knees.
• The gap between your toes should be wider than your hips.
• Lower down your hips to ensure that you are right between the heels.
• Make your core strong, breathe in and curve your upper body back.
• Hold the position for nearly 30 seconds and then release it by breathing out.

What not to do?

• Avoid doing this asana if your knee hurts with sharp sensations, and pains while bending it.
• Don’t do this asana in the case of heart problems.
• In case of headaches, take the support of a bolster to rest your head and then practice.
• Unless approved by the doctor, skip doing the asana in case of knee injuries.

Virasana is an excellent way of Meditation, whether you are indoors or outdoors. The best time to practice is during the sunrise when you can charge up your heart, and re-energize yourself. Doing this exercise early in the morning prepares you for the rest of your day as you will take pleasure in the challenges that are thrown at your way. Doesn’t matter if you are going to the school, the first lecture of college, or your regular job, Virasana gives you a fresh state of mind to make your days in your favor.

Benefits of Virasana/Hero Pose:

Make yourself a hero of your own life, whether you control the actions and reactions of your own life. When you align yourself with the natural art of Yoga, your mental, physical, and spiritual self get uplifted, and you can see things more clearly than ever with this unique form of Meditation.

The health benefits of Hero Pose also help you to relieve your tiredness, improve the circulation in your body to become mentally flexible. With the therapeutic effects of Virasana, improve your way of living, because if not today, then when?

1. It stretches the thighs, ankles, and knees.
2. The asana helps in better digestion and deals with gastrointestinal problems.
3. It helps to make the process of menopause easy.
4. It reduces the swelling in the legs in the second trimester of pregnancy.
5. It improves the circulation of blood.
6. It readjusts your body posture.
7. It also helps to maintain blood pressure in the body.

The regular practice of Virasana will enhance your performance in physical exercises like running, cycling, etc. Strengthening the arches of the feet is a bi-product of practicing this asana consistently. This ideal form of Meditation calms the mind and quiets the noises within. Virasana also broadens the sacrum and elongates the quadriceps. You will become more aware of yourself and get done with your overemotional attitude or the problems of overthinking, insecurities, and stubbornness. This asana nurtures the identity of the self and gives birth to confidence, and acceptance.

To live a happy, fulfilling life, you must harmonize your inner and outer picture, so that you can stay true to yourself and others. With the Hero Pose, you won’t only make yourself the person you aspire to be, but you will also be able to quench the thirst of your soul. Become a changed person after the mastering Virasana. You don’t even have to join any class if you just follow the steps given by us, and you can comfortably practice at home. However, you should always be aware of the contraindications of this pose and take precautions if:

• You suffer from heart issues
• Ankle or knee injury
• Headache

Put your warrior quality forth, and absorb the qualities of a hero by gripping the health benefits of Virasana. Yoga has many magical benefits that can only be seen if you make yourself patient enough. Let us know how your experience goes, as we are here to encourage and motivate the people who want to live a healthy and independent life.

Tip: Get your group of friends and try it out together on a Sunday, to make it more fun. Enjoy!