The Kamasutra, attributed to the sage Vatsyayana, is a classical Sanskrit text that goes far beyond mere sexual technique. It is a treatise on the art of living, pleasure, relationships, and aesthetics. One of the lesser-discussed but profoundly symbolic sexual positions mentioned in the text is the “Yawning Position”, or “Prasaritaka”, as described by later commentators and classical interpreters.

Though not as widely popularized as other positions like “The Lotus” or “The Cowgirl,” the Yawning Position is rich with meaning and physical nuance. This article will explore this position in the context of Kamasutra’s philosophy, uncovering its symbolic, physical, and emotional depths.

Understanding the Name: Why “Yawning”?

At first glance, calling a sexual position the “Yawning” one may seem curious, even humorous. But the metaphor is deliberate and sensual. The term “yawning” symbolizes openness, expansion, and a receptive posture. Just as a yawn opens the mouth and throat in a spontaneous act of release and vulnerability, the Yawning Position represents the feminine body as expansively open and inviting.

The Sanskrit term prasaritaka literally means “spread” or “opened out,” often interpreted as the woman lying on her back with her legs wide apart, resembling a natural yawn of the body. This openness is not just physical but emotional—indicating a willingness to connect fully and surrender to the pleasure and passion of the moment.

Historical Context and Textual Mentions

In the original Kamasutra, the sexual positions are categorized under the chapter titled “Samprayoga” (On Sexual Union). While the text itself does not label positions with modern names, many of them have been elaborated upon in later commentaries and illustrated manuscripts, especially during the medieval and Mughal periods.

The Yawning Position is referenced among the positions of passive reception, where the woman takes a more receptive role, and the man initiates movement. However, the position offers significant mutual pleasure, and when executed with harmony, it brings profound emotional and physical satisfaction.

The Physical Form of the Yawning Position

Basic Execution

The Yawning Position typically involves the following setup:

The woman lies on her back, fully relaxed.

Her legs are spread wide apart, knees slightly bent or extended, depending on comfort and flexibility.

Her arms may be stretched above the head, placed beside her, or used to hold the man’s shoulders or arms.

The man lies on top, entering her in the missionary style but adjusting his posture to accommodate her widely parted legs.

The depth and angle of penetration are enhanced due to the openness, allowing for deeper, more immersive intercourse.

Variations

The beauty of the Yawning Position is its adaptability. Variations include:

• With legs resting on his shoulders, allowing even deeper penetration.
• With a pillow under the hips, elevating the pelvis for an upward angle.
• With both partners holding hands, creating emotional connectedness.
• Twisting one leg slightly, adding asymmetry and novelty to the rhythm.

Symbolism and Energetic Aspects

In ancient Indian philosophy, physical positions were not merely bodily gestures but manifestations of cosmic energies. The Yawning Position reflects the union of Shakti (feminine energy) and Shiva (masculine energy).

The open legs symbolize the yoni, the sacred feminine source of life and pleasure.

The penetration represents the linga, the masculine force entering the womb of the universe.

The position becomes an act of devotion, where surrender and assertion blend in sacred eroticism.

This idea is echoed in Tantric practices where sexual union is a path to spiritual elevation, and openness of the body parallels the openness of the soul.

Psychological and Emotional Dimensions

Trust and Vulnerability

The Yawning Position requires the woman to expose herself entirely—both literally and figuratively. Her legs are parted, her torso open, her gaze (if eyes are open) directly toward her lover. Such a posture demands trust, emotional safety, and comfort with one’s partner. It is not merely about lust, but about mutual surrender.

Receptive Intimacy

Unlike more active or dominant positions, this one celebrates the power of receptivity. It underscores the idea that pleasure need not always stem from movement or control but can arise from being fully present, open, and emotionally attuned.

Communication Through Touch and Eye Contact

Because both partners are facing each other, there is rich scope for non-verbal communication: eye contact, facial expressions, subtle touches. The emotional intensity is heightened when the physical act is accompanied by whispers, moans, and gentle caresses.

Physical Benefits and Sensual Enhancements

Depth of Penetration

The openness of the position allows for deep vaginal penetration, stimulating the A-spot and cervical areas, depending on anatomy. For many women, this depth brings a different kind of orgasm—more internal, more full-bodied.

Easier Stimulation of the Clitoris

If desired, either partner (or a toy) can stimulate the clitoris during intercourse. Because the woman’s body is spread and relaxed, it’s easier to reach and touch sensitive areas, enhancing the multi-dimensional experience of pleasure.

Less Physical Strain

Unlike positions that demand balance or muscular effort (e.g., Cowgirl or Standing), the Yawning Position is physically sustainable. It is well-suited for:

• Long lovemaking sessions.
• Partners who prefer slow, rhythmic movements.
• Moments when emotional intimacy takes precedence over physical vigor.

Enhancing the Experience: Techniques and Suggestions

Use of Breath

Coordinating breathing deepens intimacy. Breathing together or pausing at moments of high sensation can prolong arousal and deepen the emotional connection.

Tantric Gaze (Tratak)

Holding eye contact in this position can lead to heightened emotional unity. In Tantra, this is called Tratak—a meditative gaze that allows two lovers to merge energetically.

Sound and Voice

The openness of this position allows sound to travel freely. Moaning, whispering names, or saying loving words adds a layer of emotional narrative to the act, making it not just about bodies but about shared experience.

Synchronized Movements

Rather than thrusting rapidly, this position invites slow, deep, undulating movements, mimicking the rhythm of ocean waves or breath. It’s a dance of union, where each motion has a beginning, middle, and end.

When to Choose the Yawning Position
This position is ideal when:

• The goal is intimacy and connection, not just orgasm.
• You want a slow, sensual session rather than a quick encounter.
• You or your partner need to feel emotionally secure and cherished.
• One partner is feeling tired or physically low on energy but still wants to be involved in lovemaking.
• After a fight or emotional turbulence, as a way of healing through closeness and touch.

Potential Challenges and How to Address Them

Vulnerability

For some, the position may feel too exposing. It’s important to foster emotional safety by:

• Ensuring privacy and comfort.
• Checking in verbally or with touch.
• Creating a loving environment with dim lighting, soft music, or incense.

Flexibility Issues

If one partner has tight hips or back discomfort, variations like bending the knees slightly, placing a cushion under the pelvis, or using side support pillows can help.

Emotional Readiness

This position, because of its symbolic openness, is best used when both partners feel emotionally attuned. It may not be the ideal choice after an argument unless both are genuinely ready to reconnect.

Cultural Resonance and Artistic Depictions

Classical Indian art—such as the sculptures of Khajuraho or Konark—often portray couples in similar open positions. The Yawning Position’s visual geometry—a triangle formed by the legs, the symmetry of bodies—is inherently aesthetic, almost architectural.

In poetry, metaphors of the lotus opening, the cloud parting, and the moon entering the night sky often allude to this kind of union. These are not just florid descriptions—they encode the same energetic principle: openness meets depth.

Modern Relevance and Reclamation

In today’s world, where speed, anxiety, and performance pressure pervade sexual relationships, the Yawning Position offers an antidote. It is an invitation to slow down, to become aware of sensations, emotions, and spiritual currents that flow between two people.

Moreover, reclaiming such ancient wisdom is an act of cultural revival—one that respects our erotic heritage without shame.