Question

Explain the Procedure, Benefits, Precautions and Contraindications of Go-mukhasana.

Answer 1

Procedure:

1. Sit and extend the legs forward.
2. Bend the right leg and place the right foot near the left buttock.
3. Fold the left leg and place the left foot near the right buttock.
4. Take the left arm over the left shoulder and the right arm behind the back; hook the fingers.
5. Sit comfortably for 10–15 seconds; release, straighten the legs and repeat with the opposite arms and legs.

Benefits:

1. Increases concentration and inner peace.
2. Corrects drooping shoulders and postural deformities.
3. Improves lung capacity.
4. Helpful in arthritis.
5. Relieves backache, sciatica and stiffness in shoulders and neck.
6. Reduces stress and anxiety and strengthens the leg muscles.

Precautions: Keep the spine upright; do not force the fingers to meet; support with a belt if needed.

Contraindications: Shoulder/back/hip/knee pain, injuries of knee/hamstrings/quadriceps, sciatica, neck/shoulder injury and pregnancy.