Shalabhasana
The Locust Pose
Instructions .
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Lie on the stomach with the hands under the thighs, palms facing downward.
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Stretch the legs and tense the arms.
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Raise the legs and abdomen as high as possible without bending the legs.
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Practice up to 5 times maximum per hatha yoga session.
Breath .
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Inhale deeply in the lying-down position.
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Retain the breath inside while raising the legs and abdomen.
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Exhale while returning to the starting position.
Concentration .
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Physical: On the abdomen, lower back, or heart.
Sequence .
- Together with bhujangasana and dhanurasana.
Limitations.
- Not to be practiced by sufferers of peptic ulcer, hernia, intestinal tuberculosis or people with a weak heart.
Benefits.
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This asana tones and adjusts the functioning of the liver and other abdominal organs, especially the intestines, pancreas, and kidneys.
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It is very useful for relieving and eliminating diseases of the stomach and bowels, and it stimulates the appetite.
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It strengthens the lower-spine and heart, and tones the sciatic nerves.