Thoppukaranam: The Traditional Ear-Hold Squat
Many of us first learnt Thoppukaranam in front of a Vinayagar shrine or at school. The arms cross to hold the opposite earlobes while you squat and rise with the breath. It is simple, traditional, and good exercise for the legs; claims that it boosts brain power have not been established by research.
This tip is scheduled for Friday 11 December 2026 — you’re early. It’s all here already; enjoy.
How to do it
- Stand with the feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly turned out.
- Cross the arms: the left hand holds the right earlobe and the right hand holds the left, right arm in front.
- Squat down slowly, as low as is comfortable — many teachers inhale on the way down.
- Rise slowly — exhaling on the way up.
- Repeat 10 to 15 times.
Go deeper
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