Utthita Padmasana

This asana is a variation of Padmasana. The body is lifted up with both the hands on the floor in this pose. This is the reason why it is called Utthita Padmasana or Lolasana or Dolasana.

This asana is more difficult than Padmasana because in this asana the whole body is balanced on both the hands. However if you prefect the Padmasana, you will have no problem in being able to perform this asana.

Step 1: Sit on the mat and bend one of your feet so that it is resting on your opposite thigh with the sole facing upwards. Now bend the other foot and place it on the other thigh so that it is placed over the other foot, with the sole upwards. This is the Padmasana. Rest the palms on the floor besides the hips. Slowly raise the trunk without a jerk. The body should not quiver.

Step 2: Retain the breath in the lungs as long as the body is in the raised position. Exhale when the body is lowered down. The picture shows a side view of the asana.While performing this asana, some beginners experience tremor in the hands because of some weakness but it should not dishearten them. They should practice the asana patiently and with perseverance.

While lifting the body on the hands, one may lose balance and fall backward; so one must be careful at this point.

(Dip in yoga- India)
Model: ukshan
Pictures by: Ranjith Asanka