Karnapidasana (Knee-to-Ear Pose)

Karnapidasana is an intense forward fold asana in Ashtanga Yoga.

Overview

Karnapidasana, meaning “ear pressure pose,” is an advanced variation of Halasana where the knees bend and come to the floor beside the ears, compressing the ears and creating a deep forward fold of the spine.

Method/Content

From Halasana (plow pose), the knees are bent and lowered to the floor beside the ears. The feet rest on the floor behind the head. The arms can extend behind the back or remain by the sides. The pose creates deep flexion of the spine and compression of the abdomen. The breath is maintained steadily despite the compression.

Purpose/Benefits

Karnapidasana deeply stretches the spine and back muscles. The compression of the ears creates a meditative withdrawal of the senses. The pose stimulates the thyroid gland and abdominal organs.

Verification Notes

• Found in Ashtanga Yoga Intermediate Series
• An advanced variation following Halasana