The Cobra pose is usually known as Bhujangasana in Eastern countries like India.
"Bhujanga" means cobra in the Sanskrit language and hence the name which is widely accepted in the West.
The Cobra pose is greatly effective as it can relieve certain types of lower back aches as over time it strengthens the lower back.
In the pose or the Bhujangasana the body faces downwards where as the upper body is curled upwards.
This allows the body to resemble a cobra which is ready to strike with its head raised.
The cobra pose is usually the first to be practised in the series of backward bending poses which is usually followed by asanas like the Locust pose and bow postures.
The warm up of the muscles of the back is a must before a fully fledged performance of the yoga cobra pose as it requires powerful movement of the back bone muscles.
The Cobra pose if practised without proper warm up, like any yoga pose or physical exercise, may result in strained muscles.
While performing it one should exercise caution not to push the physical limitations of one and one should only extend to the limit which is comfortable for oneself without straining one's back.
One of the tips to check if one is performing within the limits of ones strength is to remove the hands off the floor for a second so that the body will adjust to a height which is safe as well as comfortable.
The pose is highly beneficial for the lower back as it results in enhanced flexibility of the back.
This is mainly because of the powerful backward stretch allowed by the Cobra pose.
Spinal nerves are rejuvenated and strengthened by the regular practice of these types of positions.
This posture is especially recommended for women as it relieves them from some menstrual problems as well as effectively tones the uterus as well as the ovaries.
It also helps in achieving firm and strong buttocks.
The traditional Indian texts are of the opinion that the pose increases internal heat of the body which boosts the immunity and fights diseases.
They are also of the opinion that it is a helpful pose to awaken the kundalini.
People who have an injured back should not perform the yoga cobra pose.
The cobra pose should be avoided by pregnant ladies as well.
Also, the patients of hernia should not perform this pose, as it can aggravate the suffering.
It is best to get instruction from a qualified instructor either in a class or from good yoga DVDs.