Kukkutasana
Rooster pose
Learn this posture in person with a teacher.
Kukkuta means "cockerel". An arm balance derived from the seated lotus, and one of the oldest non-seated asanas.
Technique
- Sit in Padmasana.
- Insert the hands between the calves and thighs, near the knees.
- Gradually push the arms through the legs up to the elbows.
- Place the palms firmly on the floor, fingers pointing forward.
- Keeping the head straight and the eyes on a point in front, raise the body from the floor, balancing on the hands.
- Keep the back straight and stay as long as comfortable.
- Come down, release the arms and legs, change the crossing of the legs and repeat.
Awareness
Physically on the contraction of the perineum, the strength of the arms and shoulders and the breath in the nostrils while balancing; gradually on Muladhara chakra.
What it gives
- Strengthens the arms and shoulders and opens the chest.
- Develops balance and stability.
- Traditionally used in the practices of kundalini, through the stimulation of Muladhara chakra.
Precautions
- The arms and wrists must be strong enough to carry the body.
Learn it with Acharya Lokesh
Intermediate postures are safest when a teacher watches you. Book a free trial session at home in Delhi or online, or take the illustrated guide home.
Text from Acharya Lokesh's handbook Yogasana for Intermediates (Agastya Yoga School, 2022), edited for clarity. General information about a traditional practice, not medical advice: if you have a health condition, are pregnant or recovering from surgery, ask your doctor first.