Ushtrasana

Other Names

Camel Pose, Ustrasana, Unt or Unth Posture, Ustra or Ushtra Asana

Description

The word “ushtra” refers to “Camel”. In this asana, the body resembles the neck of a camel, that's why it is called 'Ushtrasana'.

How to reach the stretch

• Sit with legs stretched, heels together, palms pressing on the ground by the side of buttocks, to keep the body at right angles to the legs with an erect spine.
• Bend right leg backwards.
• Bend the left leg to come to Vajrasana.
• Raise up making the trunk vertical.
• Inhale and bend the body backwards and bring the hands on the heels.

How to release the stretch

To release, inhale and lift the head up, place the hands on the hips and tilt forward into a straight line and EXHALE. Perform once or twice.

Benefits

• This asana stretches the upper and lower thigh and knees.
• The focus point is the spine.
• It limbers the entire spine and pelvis. It will open the chest allowing for deeper breathing.

Caution

Not for the persons who have hernia, recent or chronic knee, shoulder, neck or back injury or inflammation.

Next: Parvatasana