Meru Prishthasana - Rotating the Upper Body

Starting Position: Standing

Concentration: on twisting of the spine

Breath: coordinated with the movement

Repetitions: 3 times to each side

Practice: Stand with legs slightly apart. >Inhaling raise arms sideways and place fingertips on shoulders. >Exhaling strongly rotate the upper body to the left. >Inhaling return back to the centre. The legs and pelvis do not twist. >Repeat the twisting movement 10 times. >After the 10th twist to the left, exhale and bend the upper body down to hip level, keeping the back straight. Then move the body to the front. >Inhaling stand upright. >Exhaling return to starting position. >Repeat on the other side.

Benefits: Specifically relaxes the deep muscles of the back and promotes flexibility of the spine. Stimulates the energy of the whole body, deepens the breath and gives inner balance. Stimulates digestion and blood circulation. Beneficial for low blood pressure.

Caution: Avoid this Asana with a slipped disc.