HALASANA

Halasana is so named because the posture assumed in doing this asana resembles a plough, for which Hala is the Sanskrit word.

Technique : Lie flat on the back with the arms stretched by the side of the body, palms flat on the ground. Place the legs together and keep them straight. Inhale and raise the legs up slowly. Inhaling and the raising of the legs up should be simultaneous. Do not bend the knees. Do not raise the arms. Do not bend the back. When you are in Sarvangasana posture, exhale and at the same time begin lowering the legs over the head till the toes touch the ground. Keep the knees together and straight. Keep the thighs and the legs straight. Through the mouth. Keep the eyes closed or open. See that the legs remain straight. Let the chin touch the throat. Hold this position for eight to ten seconds. Then slowly raise the legs and without giving them a jerk bring them to the ground in the original position.

Advantages:

1. This asana nourishes the blood vessels of the spinal column, the muscles of the back, vertebrae and the nerves which pass by both the sides of vertebrae.

2. It makes the spine flexible and elastic. As a result, a habitual aspirant of Halasana becomes very agile, alert and vigorous.

3. It eliminates muscular rheumatism, lumbar pain, sprain and neuritis.

4. It cures constipation, gastric trouble and reduces irregular contraction and expansion of the liver and the spleen.

5. According to the Yoga textbooks, this asana, tones up sexual ability.

6. It strengthens the abdominal muscles.

7. As this asana stimulates blood circulation, the face becomes bright and youthful.