Question

Explain the Procedure, Benefits, Precautions and Contraindications of Shalabhasana.

Answer 1

Procedure:

1. Lie on the stomach with legs and heels together; hands beside the thighs, palms facing down.
2. Place the chin on the floor and slide the palms under the thighs.
3. Inhale and lift both legs as high as possible; breathe normally.
4. Hold for a few seconds; slowly lower the legs and relax.

Benefits:

1. Strengthens the lower back and pelvic organs.
2. Gives relief in mild sciatica, backache and non-serious slip disc.
3. Exercises legs, thighs, hips, buttocks, lower abdomen, diaphragm and wrists.
4. Reduces excessive fat around knees, thighs, waist and abdomen.
5. Regulates the liver and increases flexibility of the spine.

Precautions: Keep the legs straight; do not lift the chest; avoid holding the breath.

Contraindications: High blood pressure, asthma, cardiac diseases, weak lungs, hernia, peptic ulcer, intestinal tuberculosis and severe back pain.