the slipped disc, removes backache and keeps the spine supple and healthy. •• It tones the ovaries and uterus, and helps alleviate menstrual and other gynaecological disorders. •• It improves the lung capacity. Shalabhasana The meaning of salabha is locust.
In the final position of this āsana, body resembles the shape of a locust, hence the name. Fig. . : Shalabhasana •• Lie down in prone position, place the palms below the thighs, press them downward and join the heels.
•• Chin should be placed on the ground. Activity . Students practice Shalabhasana daily and maintain in the record book. Teacher will check the improvement in holding time.
•• Lift the legs as high as possible while inhaling. •• Bring down the legs while exhaling. •• Release the hands. •• Relax in makrasana .
•• Raise the legs slowly without jerks. •• Take the support of the hand to raise the legs. •• Place the chin on the ground. •• Keep the knees straight in the final position.
•• Avoid bending the knees. •• Avoid keeping distance between the knees. •• Avoid bending at the elbows. •• Do not practice it beyond one’s physical limits/capacity.
•• Shalabhasana stimulates the autonomous nervous system particularly the parasympathetic one. •• It massages abdominal organs. •• It is good for lower back ache and slipdisk. •• It relieves constipation and improves digestion.
•• It improves blood circulation and directs blood circulation upwards. Pawanmuktasana ‘ Pawana ’ means wind and ‘ mukta ’ means released. As the name suggests, the practice of this asana helps in releasing excessive gas from the body. This asana when performed with one leg, is called Ekapada Pawanamuktasana .
•• Lift both legs, bend them at the knees and encircle the knees with both arms. Press the knees and bring them towards the chest. •• Raise the head with the chin touching the knees. This is Pawanamuktasana .
•• Press the knees to the chest. •• Toes should be relaxed. •• Avoid raising beyond the mid-torso. •• Perform within physical limits.
•• Avoid this practice in case of Cervical Spondylitis.