Kurmasana, the pose of the turtle (Kurma means tortoise or turtle in Sanskrit).
Yogi tradition asserts that Kurmasana provides a mystical state of mind. It activates Anahata and Sahasrara chakras, the center of energies at the levels of the heart and the top of the head. During its performance, the connection of these two chakras promotes a mystical mood of mental relaxation, a feeling of unconditional love, and a powerful attunement with the Universe. It is a feeling that the practitioner gets once he or she is able to stay deep in the posture. Kurmasana is an excellent pose to meditate and get into Pratyahara (sense withdrawal) facilitating a state of deep internalization.
“When a yogi withdraws all his senses from the objects of perception as a turtle withdraws its limbs when retracting into its shell, then the yogi is firmly fixed on the path towards wisdom.” Bhagavad Gita (II.58).
Physically, the turtle pose is excellent for toning and increasing circulation in the spine, giving elasticity to the dorsal area, relieving head and neck ache, and removing backaches caused by bad positions or standing for long times.
It activates the abdominal organs, removes constipation, relieves urinary problems, tones the kidneys, and encourages a flow of fresh blood to the spinal nerves and muscles.
Kurmasana also calms the nerves. Overpowering passion, fear, anxiety, anger and negative emotions subside, and the body and mind are refreshed through its constant practice.
This is an asana that requires a committed practice. It is not an easy posture to do, so please don’t try it on your own, and don’t ever force it.
Contact me if you want more information on how to practice it.