Simhagarjanasana (roaring lion pose)

• Sit in simhasana.
• Open the eyes and gaze at the eyebrow centre, adopting shambhavi mudra.
• Relax the whole body.
• Keep the mouth closed.
• Inhale slowly and deeply through the nose.
• At the end of inhalation, open the mouth and extend the tongue out as far as possible towards the chin.
• While slowly exhaling, produce a clear, steady 'aaa' sound from the throat, keeping the mouth wide open. Do not strain or force the sound in any way.
• At the end of exhalation, close the mouth and breathe in.
• This is one round.

Breathing: Inhale slowly through the nose and then slowly exhale through the mouth with the 'aaah' sound.

Duration:  To maintain general health practise 5 to 10 rounds daily.
The eyes, tongue and mouth may be relaxed for a few moments between each round.
This asana may be performed at any time.

Awareness:  Physical - on opening the chest, and the sensation in the eyes and tongue. While inhaling, on the breath.
While exhaling, on the sound produced, the feeling of emotional release, and the effect on the throat area. Spiritual - on vishuddhi or ajna chakra.

Benefits: This is an excellent asana for the throat, nose, ears, eyes and mouth, especially if performed facing the healing rays of the early morning sun. It relieves frustration and releases emotional tension. Tension is removed from the chest and diaphragm. Simhagarjanasana is useful for people who stutter or who are nervous and introverted. It develops a strong and beautiful voice.
Other benefits are as for shambhavi mudra.

Variation: Move the tongue slowly from side to side, while making a long 'aaa' sound.