Simha means lion, since we assume the majestic pose of a seated lion in this asana, hence the name. This Simhasana, adored by ancient yogis. This, the best of Asanas facilitates (adopting) the three Bandhas, namely the Mula, Jalandhara and the Uddiyana.
 Steps for Practice:
1. Sit in Vajrasana.
2. Now raise your buttock a little and cross the heel and toes of the right leg over that of left leg like a scissor.
3. Sit on the heels and place both hands on the respective knees. Spread out the fingers.
4. Bring out the tongue as much as possible. Gaze should be Nasal.
5. While returning back to the original position, take the tongue in, release the tension, loosen your hands and come back to the original position.
Benefits
1. Relieves tension in the chest and face.
2. An often-overlooked benefit of Simhasana is that it stimulates the platysma, a flat, thin, rectangular-shaped muscle on the front of the throat. The platysma, when contracted, pulls down on the corners of the mouth and wrinkles the skin of the neck.
3. Simhasana helps keep the platysma firm as we age.
4. According to traditional texts, Simhasana destroys disease and facilitates the three major Bandhas (Mula, Jalandhara, Uddiyana).
5. Muscles of the neck are exercised and the blood circulation therein is improved.
6. The thyroid is also made healthy.
7. Tonsillitis of certain types is checked.
8. It does not require extraordinary flexibility. Any one can practice it with ease.
Precautions
1. The hands on the respective knees should remain straight and the chest should be erect.
2. At the time of bringing out the tongue exhale from the mouth with some sound.
3. After completion of exhalation maintain the position for few seconds. Practice it again after taking the tongue in.
4. Persons with a knee injury, have to be cautious in flexed-knee sitting positions and, if necessary, can sit on a chair while practicing this asana.
Beginner`s Tip:The hands and shoulder blades are sympathetically connected. As you spread the right palm on the right knee, feel how the shoulder blade spreads across your back. Similarly, as you press each palm against the same-side knee, feel how the same-side shoulder blade presses more deeply into the back, helping to lift the heart.
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