The meaning of salabha is locust. In the final position of this asana, body resembles the shape of a locust, hence the name.
Shalabhasana
Stages for Practice
- Lie down in prone position, place the palms below the thighs, press them downward and join the heels.
- Chin should be placed on the ground.
- Lift the legs as high as possible while inhaling.
- Bring down the legs while exhaling.
- Release the hands.
- Relax in makrasana.
Dos and Don’ts
- Raise the legs slowly without jerks.
- Take the support of the hand to raise the legs.
- Place the chin on the ground.
- Keep the knees straight in the final position.
- Avoid bending the knees.
- Avoid keeping distance between the knees.
- Avoid bending at the elbows.
- Do not practice it beyond one’s physical limits/capacity.
Benefits
- Shalabhasana stimulates the autonomous nervous system particularly the parasympathetic one.
- It massages abdominal organs.
- It is good for lower back ache and slipdisk.
- It relieves constipation and improves digestion.
- It improves blood circulation and directs blood circulation upwards.
