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Ardha Pawanmuktasana (One Leg Wind Release Pose)

Method

Step 1:Lie down on your back; adjust your lower back by sliding your hips and tailbone down towards your heels so that lower back is firmly resting on the floor without any gap or arch.

Step 2: Inhale and raise your right leg up to 60 degree (use your core muscles to raise your right leg up); keep your right leg stretched and while maintaining the stretch, bend your right knee and place your right thigh on the right side of your chest; hug your right leg with both the hands; try to hold your elbows with the opposite hands; keep your left leg straight and stretched, left hamstrings pressed against the floor with your left heel sliding out and left toes flexing in.

Step 3: You may also choose to keep your left leg straight on the floor while keeping a bolster below your left knee; hold for half a minute or as per your comfort with normal breathing; release and repeat the same sequence with your left leg. Note In case of discomfort at back, bend your left knee, place your left foot on the floor and then raise your right leg up.

Benefits

Massages your lower back and gives relief to lower back pain.

Improves digestion; helps dealing with gastric problems. The pressure on the abdomen releases any trapped gases in the large intestine.

In women, the asana massages the pelvic muscles and reproductive organs and is beneficial for menstrual disorders as well. It also reduces fat in the abdominal area, thighs and buttocks

Contraindications

Pregnant woman should not practice Ardha Pawanmuktasana

People suffering with piles or hernia should perform this asana only in supervision and consultation with a yoga expert.

You should avoid this asana if you have undergone a recent abdominal surgery as there is a lot of pressure on the abdomen.