Yoga asanas can become a medium of expressing our reverence towards the Tirthankar Bhagwans. Inspired by the work on Jain Yoga by Shri Shantilal D. Parakh, these asanas are derived from various aspects of the 24 Tirthankars like Their life stories, symbols (lanchans) and virtues. Let us add an element of devotion in our yoga practice through these asanas

What

Vrushasana honouring Shri Rushabhdev Bhagwan

Why this Name

This asana derives its name from the Sanskrit words ‘vrush’ which means ‘bull’ and ‘asana’ – ‘pose’. The bull is the lanchan of the first Tirthankar, Shri Rushabhdev Bhagwan. This asana is also known as Rushabhasana.

How to do it

Begin with the knees together in Vajrasana.
Inhale, raise the left leg and fold it from the knee, stacking the left knee over the right knee.
Exhale and place the right hand on the left knee and the left hand on top of the right hand.
Ensure both knees and hands are aligned, one on top of the other.
Hold this position for 10 counts, breathe deeply and chant the mantra – ‘Ṇamo Usabhāṇaṁ’, mentally or loudly.
Repeat the pose on the other side.

Which Benefits

Cures indigestion and stomach problems.
Relieves gas and acidity.
Strengthens the leg muscles.
Calms the nervous system.
Helps in treating insomnia.

Contraindications

Avoid performing this asana if you have any knee injury.

What

Gajasana honouring Shri Ajitnath Bhagwan

Why this Name

This asana derives its name from the Sanskrit words ‘gaj’ which means ‘elephant’ and ‘asana’ – ‘pose’. The elephant is the lanchan of the second Tirthankar Shri Ajitnath Bhagwan.

How to do it

Start from a table-top position.
Inhale and lift the knees up, keeping the arms and legs straight.
Exhale; plant the heels on the floor, pushing the chest towards the naval.
Make yourself comfortable in this Adhomukha Svanasana for a few breaths.
Exhale, slightly bend your arms down and push your upper body forward, leaning towards the front.
Inhale, straighten the arms and come back to the earlier position.
Perform this movement 10 times. Ensure the core is engaged and the palms are firmly rooted on the ground.
To release the pose, inhale and exhale, bring the knees back to the ground and rest in Balasana.
You may perform cycles of 10 counts and chant the mantra ‘Ṇamo Ajiyāṇaṁ’, mentally or loudly, during the asana.

Which Benefits

Contributes to better digestion by strengthening the stomach, liver and intestines.
Stimulates peristalsis which relieves constipation.
Reduces abdominal fat and flattens the belly area.
Improves blood circulation in the hands and feet thus reducing sweating, joint aches and numbness.
Tones the arms, elbows, wrists, fingers, hips, legs and feet.

Contraindications