Secret Lotus Pose - Gupta Padmasana
Contents
Secret Lotus Pose or Gupta Padmasana (GUP-taa pod-MAHS-anna) necessitates the use of hip, knee, and ankle strength to support the upper body while in a forward bend.
Squeezing the knees and ankles with the hips’ stability, the body goes into prone – resting flat on the floor – and eventually into a lock with the hands behind in Anjali Mudra (Namaskar Mudra).
Gupta means “hidden/preserved/guarded” in Sanskrit, hence hiding one’s wrath, worry, tensions, negativities, and so on, and conserving what is healthy for the body and mind.
Gupta Padmasana necessitates hip flexibility. This asana has a beneficial effect on the entire spine. It’s very flattering on a rounded back. Because the feet are covered behind the torso, this asana is also known as the “Hidden Lotus Pose”
Pose Detail
- By Type: Chest Opening Yoga Poses, Flexibility Yoga Poses, Meditation Yoga Poses, Shoulder Opening Yoga Poses, Strengthening Yoga Poses
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Body Position: Prone Yoga Poses, Supine Yoga Poses
Step-by-Step Instructions
Benefits and Contraindications
Good for a rounded back and hip displacement
Induces peace, stability, and emotional balance
Helpful for migraines
Positive influence upon the entire spine
Pregnancy and women during menstruation
Abdominal surgery
Pain in the hips, knees or shoulders
Problems of the cervical spine
Sciatica
Modifications, Props and Tips
- A common beginner’s mistake is rushing through this yoga asana and giving up quickly. The hidden lotus pose is an intermediate level yoga asana and requires practice.
- In case you aren’t able to touch your chin on the ground or hold your hands behind your back, use props such as a yoga block or a yoga strap to help you achieve the correct alignment of the pose.
- If you are having trouble in padmasana you can try the hidden lotus pose with one-legged padmasana or a simple cross leg position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gupta Padmasana can be challenging for beginners, as it requires flexibility in the hips and knees. It is important to approach the pose with caution and work slowly to build up the necessary flexibility over time. It is always a good idea to practice under the guidance of a qualified yoga teacher.
If you experience pain or discomfort while practicing Gupta Padmasana, it is important to listen to your body and come out of the pose if necessary. It is always better to practice slowly and with awareness, only going as deep as feels comfortable and safe for your body.
Gupta Padmasana is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the later stages, as it can be difficult to maintain balance and stability in the pose. It’s best to practice prenatal yoga poses that are safe and appropriate for pregnancy
It’s generally not recommended to practice Gupta Padmasana or any other yoga pose that puts pressure on the abdomen during menstruation. It’s best to practice gentle, restorative poses during this time.
Variations
- Half Lotus Pose
- One-legged Lotus Pose
- Eagle Pose
- Lotus Cobra Pose
