Animal Relaxation Pose

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Shaithalyasana

Techniques:

• Sit with the legs stretched out in front on the floor
• Bend the right knee, placing the sole against the left inner thigh
• Bend the left knee out to the side and touch the sole to the outer side of the buttock
• Turn the torso to the right, placing palms on the knees
• Raise the arms over the head, keeping the elbows straight
• Bend forward from the hips keeping the back straight
• Bring the forehead and palms down to the floor
• Relax the body
• Breathe in and slowly raise the arms and trunk in one line
• Lower the arms, and practice an equal number of times on both sides

Contra-indications:

• Severe back conditions, slipped disc or sciatica
• Hernia
• Abdominal surgery

Benefits:

• Improves the flexibility of the back, pelvic region and back of the legs
• Opens the hip joints
• Balances the nervous system
• Massages the abdominal visceral organs