Ardha-Chakrasana

Other Names

Half-circle Posture, Adha Chakra Asan, Half round Pose

Description

Chakra means wheel and Ardha means half therefore this is the Half Wheel Posture. The Ardha-Chakrasana is also known as the urdhva-dhanurasana. Urdhva means raised, elevated or upright and dhanur means bow. Both "wheel posture" and "raised bow posture" describe the appearance of this asana.

How to reach the stretch

• Lie down on the floor facing upward in shavasana.
• Keep your feet far apart and hands on hips and slowly arch backward.
• Try to keep your weight on your knees and push your buttocks forward.
• Inhale and raise your arms over and behind your head and drop back onto your hands.

How to release the stretch

• To release or to stand, again shift your weight on your knees.
• Then slowly push yourself forward and bring your one arm at a time or both at once.

Benefits

• This asana stimulates all the energy centres of the body.
• It is the most dynamic back bend.
• This asana is good for respiratory problems, backache and rheumatic pains etc.

Caution

Not for the patients with high blood pressure, gynaecological problems, stomach ailments or who have had recent surgery. You must consult with Your doctor before doing this asana.

Next: Chakrasana