What is Asian Squat and Why You Need to Practice it?
Asian squat is a popular way of sitting, resting and relaxing in East Asia, which is not that common in Western countries. It is a comfortable position for many people, and has a number of benefits. So let’s dive into why you should start practicing it!
What is an Asian squat
The Asian squat is a squatting position where the feet are placed flat on the ground and the body is lowered down into a squatting position with the hips and knees bent at a 90 degree angle.
The hands may be placed on the ground in front of the body or on the thighs.
The Asian squat is a common position used in Asia for daily activities such as using the toilet, washing clothes, and cleaning the house.
Asian people are taught to sit in that position as a substitute for standing or a chair when they need to rest. Additionally, unlike toilets, which require people to squat, public restrooms use pans. In Asian nations, completing a deep squat is regarded as more hygienic than thigh and toilet seat touch.
How to do Asian squat
To perform an Asian squat, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. Next, bend your knees and lower your hips down into a squatting position.
Keep your back straight and your core engaged throughout the movement. Once you reach the bottom of the squat, hold for 1-2 seconds before returning to standing.
Health benefits of Asian squat
It is no secret that the Asian squat provides many health benefits:
- It is an excellent way to improve flexibility and range of motion in the hips and knees.
- The Asian squat strengthens the muscles in the legs and lower back, which can help prevent injuries in those areas.
- The Asian squat works a variety of muscles rather than your bones and joints. As a result, the core is boosted and the body’s flexibility is significantly increased.
- Asian squat can also help improve digestion and elimination by aiding in the movement of the intestines.
- Increases blood circulation since the Asian squat places your organs and genitourinary systems in a straighter alignment. Additionally, they are rubbed and stimulated to promote blood flow.
- As a result of the weight being evenly distributed throughout the leg muscles when performing the Asian squat, lower back and knee problems are eliminated.
Why it is so hard to do it
There are a few reasons why it is so hard to do Asian squat.
First, the position is very uncomfortable and requires a lot of flexibility.
Second, it is very hard to balance in the squat position.
Third, the knees and ankles are put under a lot of stress in the squat position.
Fourth, it is very difficult to keep the back straight in the squat position.
Fifth, the squat position puts a lot of pressure on the stomach so it can be not comfortable if you just had your dinner meal.
How can I increase flexibility to be able to do Asian squat
There are many ways that you can increase your flexibility.
Here are some general tips:
- Seated Forward Bend: Sit on the ground with your legs straight in front of you. Slowly lean forward, keeping your back straight, until you can feel a stretch in your hamstrings.
- Pigeon Pose: Start in a low lunge position with your right leg forward and your left leg back. Slowly lower your left leg to the ground and slide it forward until your left shin is parallel to your right shin and your left foot is by your right hip. You should feel a stretch in your hips and glutes.
- Camel Pose: Kneel on the ground with your feet hip-width apart and your knees directly below your hips. Place your hands on your lower back and slowly lean back, arching your back as far as you can. You should feel a stretch in your chest and shoulders.
- Downward Facing Dog: Start in a hand-and-knee position. Slowly lift your hips up and back, straightening your legs and keeping your feet hip-width apart. You should feel a stretch in your hamstrings, calves, and shoulders.
- Cobra Pose: Lie on your stomach with your feet hip-width apart and your palms flat on the ground by your shoulders. Slowly lift your chest off the ground, keeping your shoulders down and your hips on the ground. You should feel a stretch in your chest and shoulders.
Here are some specific stretches that can help increase flexibility:
- Warm up before you stretch. A light jog or jump rope are great ways to get your muscles warm.
- Hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds. The longer you hold a stretch, the more effective it will be.
- Don’t bounce. Bouncing in a stretch can actually lead to injury.
- Breathe. It may sound silly, but breathing deeply will help your muscles relax and make the stretch more effective.
- Repeat each stretch 2-3 times.
Conclusion
The Asian squat is a perfect exercise to stay fit and healthy. It is a low-impact exercise that can be done anywhere, anytime. It is also a great way to tone your legs, buttocks, and core muscles. So, if you are looking for an exercise that is easy on your body and effective, give the Asian squat a try.