The Health Benefits of Ananda Balasana (Happy Baby Pose)
We at CNY Healing Arts invite you to try out our version of Happy Baby Pose, also known as Dead Bug Pose. When performed correctly, this posture can provide significant relief to lower back pain or discomfort. The best part about it: as you lie there, this supine stretch works out kinks in your hips, back, and buttocks.
Precautions should be taken when doing Happy Baby or Dead Bug, especially if you suffer from a prior knee or neck injury. A prop, such as a folded blanket, may be used to support the neck while in this pose. Furthermore, a woman should not perform Ananda Balasana while pregnant, unless a skilled yoga practitioner modifies the pose for her separately.
Getting into Happy Baby Pose:
Begin by laying flat on your back. Exhale and bend the knees into the belly. Inhale and grip the outside of each foot with the corresponding hand. If you are performing Dead Bug Pose, hold on to the inside of each foot instead. If you find it difficult to grip your feet, try looping a belt or yoga strap over each sole and holding on to the ends of it. Open your knees slightly wider than your torso and bring them up towards your armpits. If you are performing Dead Bug Pose, your
Stack each ankle directly over the knee so that the shins are perpendicular to the floor. With gentle movements, push your feet up into your hands and pull down with your hands to create resistance. Flex your feet. Lengthen your spine as you bring your thighs into your torso and towards the floor.
Hold this posture for 30 seconds to a minute. Exhale and release the feet back to the floor. Rest for a few breaths before moving on.
Benefits of Happy Baby Pose:
- Releases lower back and sacrum
- Opens hips, inner thighs, and groin
- Stretches the hamstrings
- Relieves lower back pain
- Stretches and soothes the spine
- Calms the brain
- Helps relieve stress and fatigue