InversionIntermediate

Ear Pressure Hold

Karnapidasana Hold

Yoga practitioner holding ankles in Ear Pressure Hold pose
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About This Pose

Ear Pressure Hold is a sustained version of Karnapidasana that deepens the spinal flexion and grounding effects. By holding the ankles and allowing the body to settle into the pose, practitioners experience profound relaxation and spinal release. This variation is excellent for calming an overactive mind and preparing the body for meditation or sleep.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    From Ear Pressure Pose, reach for your ankles

  2. 2

    Hold the ankles or shins gently

  3. 3

    Allow the chin to tuck naturally

  4. 4

    Relax completely into the fold

  5. 5

    Breathe slowly through the nose

  6. 6

    Hold for 30-60 seconds

  7. 7

    Release hands and slowly unroll

Alignment Cues

  • Don't pull with the arms
  • Let gravity do the work
  • Keep breathing steady and slow
  • Relax all facial muscles

Benefits

  • Grounds the body and mind deeply
  • Stretches the entire posterior chain
  • Calms mental chatter and anxiety
  • Promotes restful sleep
  • Releases chronic back tension

Modifications

  • Use blanket support under shoulders
  • Hold backs of thighs instead of ankles

Variations

  • Widen knees slightly for comfort

Cautions & Contraindications

Cautions

  • Avoid pulling on the neck
  • Move gently into position

Avoid this pose if you have:

  • Neck injury
  • Balance issues
  • Glaucoma

Use This Pose

Quick Facts

Primary Focus

spine

Secondary Focus

hipsshoulders

Suggested Hold

45 seconds

Tags

seatedflexiongroundingrestorative

Equipment

yoga mat