Features: Magazine | Literary Review | Life | Metro Plus | Open Page | Education Plus | Book Review | Business | SciTech | NXg | Friday Review | Cinema Plus | Young World | Property Plus | Quest |

Asanas that give you joy

Inverted asanas are the essence of asana practice. They reverse the natural gravitational force. Inversions actively reverse the internal organs, massage, renew and bring real joy. They efficiently remove toxins and slow down ageing.The biggest obstacle is fear which can be overcome when you learn from an experienced and competent yoga teacher. As a preparation for the body and mind, one has to practise for a year with commitment the semi inverted asanas such as adho mukha svanasana, prasarita padottanasana, viparita karani and ardha halasana.

To achieve the active reversal effect, you must stay in an asana for at least five minutes. With the guidance of a teacher, you will become aware of how to perfectly ground your head or shoulders and balance the rest of your body on them. Props such as a wall or a chair and folded blankets must be used to avoid strain.

Inverted asanas are Sirsasana (head-stand), Sarvangasana (shoulder-stand), Halasana (plough), Karnapidasana (blocked-ears posture).

Sirsasana or the head-stand is considered the “King of Asanas”. The ancient yogis believed that “Amrita”, the nectar of immortality is increased, bestowing health and longevity.

This asana reverses blood pressure — blood pressure in the head increases, while it decreases in the legs. The brain and all the organs get soaked with oxygenated blood. An experienced practitioner can adjust well to the internal changes.

Sarvangasana is called the “Queen of Asanas.” It follows Sirsasana. This asana actively reverses organs in the thorax and abdomen and strengthens the neck and the spine. Beginners may start with Sarvangasana using a wall or chair for support. Sirsasana creates heat and makes you more alert, while Sarvangasana cools and calms you down.

Do not practise these asanas when you have uncontrolled BP, eye, ear problems, dental problems, cardiac problems, cervical spondylosis, back injury, headache, diarrhoea, hernia, during menstruation and pregnancy.

Refreshes the brain, heart and lungs and controls negative emotions.

Enhances functions of pituitary, pineal, thyroid and adrenal glands.

Improves concentration, memory, eyesight and hearing.

Slows down ageing and reverses the ill effects of ageing.

Relieves asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, thyroid problems, diabetes, ulcers, haemorrhoids, varicose veins, constipation, depression, insomnia, water retention, urinary problems, menstrual and menopausal symptoms.

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail