ASANAS
Asana is the third step of Asana is the third step of Yoga, (See What is Yoga ). The Ancient Yogi’s of India lived in the forests and mountains, they observed how nature adapted to its environment for survival, the Asanas are based on animals and nature. Yogi’s realised that a healthy body meant a positive healthy mind as only the strongest survive. They also realised that through Asanas one can strengthen ones internal organs, and that proper function of the spine and balance is so important to the nervous system and function of the human organism.
Asanas should not be done after a heavy meal, preferably three hours after eating, wear loose comfortable clothing, do not practice if you feel unwell, do relaxation postures instead. Be aware of limitations.
Eskapadasana
Benefits
Exercises and relaxes the muscles of the legs. Helps is neuromuscular balance and endurance. Helps to control the nerves.
Limitations
Varicose Veins, extreme obesity, vertigo, severe arthritis.
Garudasana
(King
of the Eagles posture)
Benefits
Exercises and relaxes the muscles of the legs. Helps is neuromuscular balance and endurance. Helps to control the nerves and encourages suppleness of arms and legs.
Limitations
Varicose Veins, extreme obesity, vertigo, severe arthritis.
Dhanurvakrasana
In photo: Satish Nagpol, a well established teacher at the institute and Verena Schielein a student from Germany demonstrating the Asana.
Benefits
Gives intra abdominal compression. Improves digestion, circulation and brings tonicity to the abdominal viscera. Helps in flexibility of the spinal column.
Limitations
Abdominal Injuries, pregnancy, cardiac problems, menstruation, piles.
Halasana
(Plough
Posture)
Benefits
Helps in nervous and digestive systems and genital organs, enlarges the vertebral foramina, relaxes them from such pressure due the improper posture , contributes to proper drainage and functioning of the viscera through the replacement of the pelvic organs. Strengthens the supporting muscles of the uterus and ovaries. Aids constipation, obesity, sexual debility, spinal rigidity, menstrual disorders, helps bring back youthful vigor!
Limitations
All spinal disorders, cardiac patients, menstruation, hypertension, prolapsed of the uterus, and umbilical hernia.
Posted by Maria McGhie on 24 September 2002