Kurmasana and options for modifications

One of the more challenging / uncomfortable / weird (what the heck is going on here and how could you possibly do this?!!? - my thoughts anyways!!) postures in the Ashtanga Primary Series.

If you try this please do it in the middle of your practice when you are super warm, it's quite deep - so modifications are given to adjust the pose depending on how you're feeling when you practice. I would not recommend trying this posture outside of Ashtanga really - as the Primary Series properly prepares your body to try this pose safely - and even then please be mindful of how you move into it and how you’re feeling - if you stop breathing and feel a sense of claustrophobia or panic you can always come out!! Definitely move away from pain, especially in the joints.

Postures are meant for self exploration and self learning, not to cause pain - you are your best teacher here as only you know what it feels like in your body and mind - pay attention to that!! That’s the practice! Not the outcome of the physical pose :)