USHTRASANA – THE CAMEL POSTURE
USHTRASANA – THE CAMEL POSTURE
The immense potential that lies within me, unravels. The camel posture has great value both physiologically and psychologically. It aims to develop a stronger spine and a leaner body and relieves minor aches and pains of the back. This asana helps remove complacency and builds a stronger emotional disposition, unravelling the potentials.
Method of Practice:
Starting Position:
- Sit on the mat in a kneeling position with your toes and heels together. It is best to keep the knees together but you may keep your knees slightly apart for comfort and balance.
Steps
- Gradually lean backward, and take your arms behind.
- Place your palms on the ground, with your fingers pointing backward and the thumbs towards the toes. Keep your arms straight.
- While inhaling, slowly lift your pelvis, waist, and body both outwards and upwards.
- Gently allow your neck and head to fall back.
- Remain in this position for 6 seconds holding your breath.
Posture Release:
- Exhaling, relax your torso and slowly straighten your head and neck.
- Release your palms and resume the kneeling position.
Limitations/Contraindications:
- Abdominal inflammation
- Ulcers
- Slipped disc
Benefits:
Physical:
- It reduces fat on your thighs.
- It opens up your hips, stretches deep hip flexors.
- There is relative stretching of your upper thighs, abdomen, thorax neck and facial muscles.
- There is an inverted pressure on the vertebrae from the small of the back towards your shoulder and neck.
Therapeutic:
- It improves your posture.
- It improves your respiration.
- It relieves lower back pain.
Psychological:
- It develops self-confidence.
- It relieves stress.
- It calms the mind.
Muscles Involved:
- Quadriceps, anterior abdominal wall muscles.
- Sterno-mastoid and wrist extensor.
- Isometric contraction of the muscles of the upper limbs.
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