Yogasana: Utthita trikonasana

Commemorative Stamp Series: Yogasanas

Overview

This stamp series celebrates the ancient practice of Yoga and highlights the physical and psychological benefits of specific asanas (postures) as described in Sage Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. Each stamp in the series depicts a different asana from the “Ashtanga-Yoga” or eight-fold path, showcasing their importance in achieving physical and spiritual well-being.

Stamp Designs

1. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
   • Description: This asana involves lifting the chest while lying on the stomach, with the arms and legs extended.
   • Benefits: Tones and strengthens the spine, aids in the flexibility of the back, and improves posture.
   • Design Elements: The stamp illustrates the pose with a focus on the gentle arch of the back and uplifted chest.
2. Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
   • Description: In this pose, the body resembles a bow with the arms and legs pulling inwards, lifting the chest and legs off the ground.
   • Benefits: Stretches the front of the body, strengthens the back and abdominal muscles, and stimulates the digestive organs.
   • Design Elements: The stamp shows the dynamic curve of the body, emphasizing the stretch and form of the bow shape.
3. Ustrasana (Camel Pose)
   • Description: This asana involves kneeling and arching the back while reaching for the heels with the hands.
   • Benefits: Stretches the entire front of the body, improves posture, and stimulates the organs in the abdomen.
   • Design Elements: The stamp depicts the extended back and the reach towards the heels, highlighting the stretch.
4. Utthita Trikonasana (Extended Triangle Pose)
   • Description: This asana involves spreading the legs and reaching down towards the foot while extending the other arm upwards.
   • Benefits: Enhances balance, stretches the legs, and strengthens the core and back muscles.
   • Design Elements: The stamp features the extended arm and leg with the body forming a triangle shape, emphasizing balance and stability.

Additional Asanas Depicted

• Padmasana (Lotus Pose)
  • Benefits: Provides a stable base for meditation, enhances flexibility of the hips, and improves circulation.
• Trikonasana (Triangle Pose)
  • Benefits: Increases flexibility, strengthens the legs, and helps correct posture.
• Shirshasana (Headstand)
  • Benefits: Improves circulation to the brain, strengthens various body systems, and enhances mental clarity.
• Navasana (Boat Pose)
  • Benefits: Strengthens the abdominal muscles, improves concentration, and aids in weight management.
• Ardha Matsyandrasana (Half Spinal Twist)
  • Benefits: Enhances spinal flexibility, aids digestion, and improves overall circulation.
• Urdhva Dhanurasana (Upward Bow Pose)
  • Benefits: Strengthens the back, improves respiratory function, and aids in spinal health.
• Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)
  • Benefits: Improves thyroid function, enhances brain circulation, and relieves constipation.

Design Details

• Stamp Design: Created by India Security Press, Nasik, based on suggestions by Smt. & Shri Rajiv Chanchani.
• First Day Cover: Designed by Shri Sankh Samant, featuring the four asanas depicted on the stamps.
• Cancellation Design: Depicts Dhanurasana, designed by Ms. Alka Sharma.
• Brochure Illustrations: Drawings by Shri J. Nath of Kodaikanal.

Significance

• Cultural Heritage: Highlights the ancient practice of Yoga and its benefits.
• Educational Value: Raises awareness about the practice and benefits of yoga asanas.
• Health Promotion: Encourages the adoption of Yoga as a means to improve physical and mental health.