Yoga Anatomy

Notes

The lengthening activation of the tongue lifts the hyoid bone; activates the digestive system;

and activates the hyoid muscles, sternum, rectus abdominis, pubic bone, and pelvic floor.

Skeletal joint actions

Spine

Atlanto-occipital joint flexion, neutral spine, adduction and elevation of eyeballs

E5267/Kaminoff/fig8.13a/417749/alw/pulled-r1

Tongue

E5267/Kaminoff/fig8.13b/417750/alw/pulled-r1

Mandible

Tongue

Teeth

Lower lip

Hyoid

E5267/Kaminoff/fig8.14/417751/alw/pulled-r2

Pterygoid

Masseter

Temporalis

E5267/Kaminoff/fig8.15/417752/alw/pulled-r1

A strong exhalation (lion’s roar) activates the three diaphragms: thoracic, pelvic, and

vocal. The platysma muscle can also be contracted in simhasana. The superior and medial

rectus muscles of the eyes both contract to direct the gaze inward and upward.

Simhasana stimulates and releases a host of often overlooked muscles. The tongue and

jaw can be thought of as the front of the neck, and cervical tension can frequently be

related to tightness in these structures. Additionally, the platysma (the flat, thin, rectangular

muscle that covers the front of the throat) can be tonified during simhasana. Aside from the

cosmetic advantages (a weak platysma is associated with wrinkly throat skin), consciously

contracting this muscle increases the ability to relax it during inspiratory efforts.

(a) The tongue at rest, and (b) tongue extension.

Jaw muscles. Location of the TMJ.

Simhasana (continued)

a b