Mastering the Full Locust Pose (Poorna Shalabhasana): A Comprehensive Guide

by | Mar 5, 2024 | yoga | 0 comments

Pose sequences in yoga are designed to strengthen the body, soothe the mind, and uplift the spirit. The Full Locust Pose, also known as Poorna Shalabhasana, is a backbend that symbolizes strength, flexibility, and elegance. It is one of these transforming asanas. This tutorial explores how to do this pose, all of its health benefits, and the necessary safety measures to make sure you’re doing it safely.

What is Full Locust Pose (Poorna Shalabhasana)?

Translated from Sanskrit, Poorna Shalabhasana means “Full Locust Pose.” “Shalabh” means locust, “Asana” means stance, and “Poorna” means full. This pose, which is a more difficult version of the fundamental Shalabhasana (Locust Pose), stretches the entire back of the body dynamically and calls for increased strength and flexibility.

Step-by-Step Guide to Full Locust Pose

Make sure your body is well warmed up with a few light stretches or Sun Salutations before attempting Poorna Shalabhasana. To execute the Full Locust Pose, follow these steps:

  1. Start on Your Belly: Place yourself flat on a yoga mat on your stomach, with your forehead resting on the mat and your arms by your sides with your palms facing up.
  2. Prepare Your Arms: Reach back and clasp your hands together, if you can. Press the palms of your hands together. Your upper body gets ready for the lift with this action.
  3. Inhale and Lift: Take a deep breath, then raise your head, chest, and legs off the ground. Rather than pressing via your hands, the lift is produced by the strength of your back muscles. Tilt your chin up and look forward, but be sure not to strain your neck.
  4. Raise Your Arms: Raise your arms straight up as high as you can. This deepens the backbend by raising the lift in your chest.
  5. Hold the Pose: Hold this posture for three to five breaths, or for as long as it feels comfortable, emphasizing the lift and stretch that comes with each inhale.
  6. Release: Breathe out slowly as you return your arms, head, and torso to the mat, then your legs. As you relax in the Crocodile posture (Makarasana), place your cheek on the mat and take a few deep breaths.

Benefits of Full Locust Pose

Regularly performing Poorna Shalabhasana can have significant effects on the body and mind.

  1. Strengthens the Back: By strengthening the muscles in the lower back, shoulders, and spine, this asana improves posture and eases back pain.
  2. Improve Flexibility: It expands the range of motion and increases back flexibility by stretching the abdomen, shoulders, and chest.
  3. Stimulates Abdominal Organs: By massaging the abdominal organs, this position facilitates better digestion and aids in the body’s detoxification.
  4. Enhances Circulation: The lift and stretch contribute to better blood circulation, particularly in the pelvic and lower back regions.
  5. Stress Relief: By opening the chest and encouraging improved breathing and a sense of mental well-being, it can, like many other backbends, help reduce stress and moderate depression.

Precautions and Contraindications

Even though Poorna Shalabhasana has many advantages, not everyone should use it. Think about using these safety measures:

  • If you have a chronic or recent back, spine, or neck injury, stay away from it.
  • Avoid this stance if you’re pregnant to prevent putting too much strain on your abdomen.
  • Patients with hernias or ulcers should see a doctor before trying anything.
  • Pay Attention to Your Body: Don’t overstretch your neck or back, and never push yourself into a pose.


The combination of strength, flexibility, and mental attention in Poorna Shalabhasana is evidence of the transformational potential of yoga. You take on a task that develops mental stability and resilience in addition to physical agility when you practice this asana. Recall that every person’s yoga path is distinct and special. Respect the boundaries of your body and let the ascent to Full Locust Pose be an introspective examination of your ability.

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