Starting Position:
Vajrasana

Concentration:
on the balance of the body

Breath:
normal breathing

Repetitions:
1–3 times

Practice:
Sit in Vajrasana and come into Urdhva Padmasana. >Hold this position for some time and concentrate on balance. Release the clasped fingers and open the triangle of the forearms bringing them slightly outwards until the forearms are parallel. The palms face downwards. >Transfer the weight onto the forearms and the hands. Back and knees remain stretched straight up. Raise the head, slowly tilt the head back slightly and look towards the floor. >Hold this position for some time breathing normally. Slowly return to the starting position.

  • Initially, practice the Asana three times holding each repetition briefly. After practicing this way for some time begin to extend the practice by holding the posture for a few minutes with normal breathing.

Benefits:
Strengthens the arm, shoulder, neck and back muscles. Particularly of benefit for abdominal and pelvic organs. Stimulates circulation, especially blood supply to the brain. The Asana is very good for the sinus, eyes and ears.

Caution:
This Asana should not be practiced with problems of the cervical spine, shoulders or elbows. It should also be avoided with high blood pressure.

Asana is included in the following categories:
Asanas and Exercises to Improve Blood Supply to the Head