Mechanic:

the main stimulation taking place in the Seal pose is a compression of the lumbar spine.

Energetic:

targets the Urinary Bladder- Kidney pathways and Stomach-Spleen.

Mind/emotions:

awakening, stimulating.

CONTRADICTIONS:

Be cautious in case of a back problem or wrist/elbow and shoulder injury.

During pregnancy the pose will need to be adapted so the belly is not compressed on the floor.

HELP & PROPS:

If you want to increase or decrease the intensity of the pose you can play with the distance in between the hands and the hip. If your wrists are sensitive, you can come back into the Sphinx pose or you can place a bolster under the armpits or directly under the elbows so the weight of the body is not increasing the compression on the wrists.

If you feel a compression on the pelvis (ASIS), place a blanket for padding.

TIME RECOMMENDED:

Two to five minutes.

RELEASING THE POSE:

From the Seal, first come back into the Sphinx, then open the elbows to the side so you can rest on your belly with the head on your forearms.

ADDITIONAL TIPS:

Sphinx is a milder version of Seal. Those poses are all about lumbar compression. A mild compression is actually beneficial for the spine, make sure you find the appropriate edge to last longer. You can increase the stimulation by bending the knees. Find how you want to position your shoulders either by depressing or elevating them as it will give you a different experience.