Shalabhasana
(The Locust Pose)
For 10-20 breaths 3-1 round Normal breathing
| Contra-Indications | Acute lower abdominal problems, hernia and appendicitis. Also colitis hydrocele, etc. |
| Starting Pose | Lie on the chest with the chin on the floor. Keep the legs together and the hands by the sides of the body, palms facing upward and closing the fingers into fists, slightly and lightly. |
| Technique | Slowly and steadily raise both the legs backwards and upwards according to capacity without folding at the knees and without holding the breath. Slightly stretch the toes and maintain the pose. Close the eyes. Apply Conscious Differential Relaxation technique and do Pranadharana. |
| Releasing the Pose | Open the eyes. Slowly and gradually bring the legs down to the starting pose without any jerky or shaky movements. Take the head on one side and relax. |
| Benefits | Builds up a healthy pelvis and abdomen. The tendency of feeling flatulent a short while after the meals is cured by the regular practice of this this asana. The tone of the bowels is improved, helping to prevent and cure constipation. Particularly helpful for ladies who have backache during or around periods. Keeps the hips in shape and strengthens the muscles of the back. Preventive and curative for lumbago and sciatica. |
Reference:Yogic Practices
Author :Yogacharya Sadashiv Nimbalkar