Last updated: December 21, 2023
What Does
Baddha Viparita Kurmasana Mean?
Baddha viparita kurmasana is a challenging inverted asana variation on kurmasana that requires considerable flexibility especially in the spine and back body. As well as a range of physical benefits, it is believed to build balance, focus and concentration. Its name comes from the Sanskrit baddha, which means "bound”, viparita which means “inverted”, kurma which means “tortoise” and asana, which means "posture" or "seat.” It is so called because the shape of the body with the torso folded between the legs is considered to resemble a tortoise retreating into its shell.
Baddha viparita kurmasana may also be known in English as bound inverted tortoise pose.
Yogapedia Explains Baddha Viparita Kurmasana
Traditionally, baddha viparita kurmasana is practiced with nabhi chakra drishti, where the gaze is to the navel or the area of manipura chakra. This helps the inward-looking nature of this posture, as well as supporting the alignment of the neck and spine in the pose.
The posture, like all variations on kurmasana is important in yoga because it is named after and emulates the tortoise, which is regarded as an animal incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who monitors the universe.
Due to the challenging nature of the posture, it should be avoided by those with spinal injuries or high blood pressure.
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