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Navasana

Last updated: December 21, 2023

What Does Navasana Mean?

Navasana is a seated yoga asana that requires core strength to hold the body in a "V" shape. As well as a range of physical benefits, it is believed to build concentration, stamina and balance.

Its name comes from the Sanskrit, nava, which means "boat," and asana, which means "posture" or "seat.” It is so called because the shape of the body balancing on the buttocks is thought to resemble a boat floating on the water.

Navasana may also be known simply as boat pose in English.

Navasana

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Yogapedia Explains Navasana

There are a range of variations of the classic navasana, including:

  • Ardha navasana – Half boat pose with the knees bent
  • Paripurna navasana – Full boat pose with the arms extended parallel to the ground
  • Eka pada navasana – One-legged boat pose with one leg bent and one leg extended out straight from the body

A fundamental pose in many styles of yoga, naukasana is thought to open the manipura (navel center) chakra, which is associated with the power of transformation. An active manipura boosts self-esteem, confidence, vitality and metabolism. It supports risk-taking and assuming responsibility. Secondarily, naukasana is also believed to open the svadhisthana (sacral) chakra, which is associated with creativity, determination and productivity.

Navasana forms part of the primary series of Ashtanga yoga and is popular in a range of styles of yoga because of its physical and mental benefits.


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Synonyms

Naukasana

Paripurna Navasana

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