What is Karnapidasana (Ear Pressure Pose)? Benefits, Steps and Suggestions

The Karnapidasana is also known as the ear pressure pose, which is purely Hatha Yoga, adapted from the classical Indian text. The word ‘Karnapidasana’ has three words in itself: the first word is Karna- ear; the second is Pida- Pressure, and the third is Aasana- pose. Collectively, they are forming the ear pressure pose.

It is a pose that gives direct pressure on the ears, and it is like stimulating internal organs. With the proper stimulation, it helps in cleansing with the help of maintaining blood circulation. This pose looks tough and like a worm is crawling with its ventral symmetrical structure.

What are the Benefits of the Ear Pressure Pose?

The ear pressure pose is the best pose for people suffering from anxiety disorders and insomnia. It is performed after the shoulder stand, which is also known as Sarvangasana. This is best performed with breath coordination. It is better to remain in this pose for 30 seconds; we will discuss the method exclusively in the next section. Here are some benefits taken from the different classical poses.

• The ear pressure pose is very beneficial for the blood circulation in the head, neck, and shoulders.
• It improves the flexibility of the neck, spine, and hamstrings, working simultaneously on the whole body, especially the lower back.
• Stimulates the adrenal gland and the pituitary gland, hence resulting in the hormonal release from them.
• Calms the entire body's nervous system.
• Increase the flexibility of the lower back and form a connection with the spine.
• It comprises the thyroid and abdominal organs, which help in increasing the metabolic rate of the body.
• It is a roller coaster of the circulation of the body, hence it is very helpful in releasing pain from the hamstrings and the lower back.

How do I Properly Perform Karnapidasana?

Do you know how to perform Sarvangasana? Yes, this pose starts with the sarvangasana first; we can also say that the shoulder stand is a preparatory pose for the Karnapidasana. It is necessary to keep the balance of the body in the shoulder stand to avoid injury, and Karnpidasana is the next step. Here is a detailed method, which will create a view in your eyes for this pose: 

• Lie on the mat and gently lift your lower body on your shoulders with your hands on your lower back. This is a shoulder stand, which is also called sarvanagasana.
• While keeping in mind breath coordination, inhale when lifting the body.
• Now slowly release your breath and keep your legs on the opposite side to your hand, make a plow pose or Halasana. Keep breathing in this position; never hold breath during the poses.
• Inhale and, with exhalation, move your knees to your ear; you will feel a gentle compression in your neck and shoulder.
• Try to keep this pose for 30 seconds, and after that, release.
• While releasing, inhale while lifting and exhale while rolling the spine, remain in the savasana pose for some seconds, which will help relax the whole body.

Who Should Avoid Karnapidasana?

The very first stress you will feel in this pose is on the shoulder, and you can deal with it by using a pillow. Be comfortable while going in plow pose, sometimes stiffness of the body is because of the stored emotions, and it is completely ok! Except for your body movements and be gentle with them. Moving to precautions, here are some suggestions:

• Pregnant women should completely avoid this pose as it will be bad for both mother and baby. 
• Keep improving your flexibility, and a person with a head, shoulder, and arm injury should avoid it.
• It is good for back pain, but in chronic conditions, avoid this pose.
• Conditions like hernia, glaucoma, and eye diseases are not compatible with this pose. 
• If you have any issues like tingling sensations, tinnitus, otitis, or similar conditions, don’t perform it and take the suggestions of the experts.

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Conclusion

Yoga Karnapidasna is very good for ear health, metabolism, balances hormones, and keeps circulation good in the whole body. It is recommended to perform this pose in the presence of experts as they are advanced level of Hatha Yoga. There are some conditions in which you have to completely avoid this pose. 

If you are interested in Yoga, at Pratham Yoga, we are giving retreats and courses for beginners and for advanced-level practitioners. You can connect with us for information regarding this topic.