How to practise
Stand straight with feet together and hands by your side (slightly away from body). Spread your weight evenly across feet. Open your legs wide apart. Lift your arms up in line with your shoulders and parallel to the floor. Turn your left foot to the left side. Bend your left knee and place left palm on the floor and simultaneously raise your right arm. Straighten your left leg. Raise the right leg until it is parallel to the floor.
Slowly release the left palm from the floor. Ensure to maintain the balance on the left leg. (Beginners can stand against the wall to ensure better balance and stability) Keep knees straight and gently tilt neck to focus the gaze at left palm.
In the final pose, ensure the right arm and the left arm aligned in a straight line. Also ensure the left foot, thigh and hip are aligned. Breathe rhythmically and stay in the pose for 20 seconds. Relax and repeat the pose on the other side to complete one cycle. Repeat the cycle 3-4 times.
Benefits
Regular practice enhances concentration
Improves motor reflexes
Improves balance and coordination
Stretches spine, keeping it supple and well aligned
Stretches inner thigh and hamstring muscles
Reduces sciatica pain
Energises body and keeps you active throughout the day
Improves body alignment particularly the shoulders
Beneficial in correcting prolapsed uterus
Relieves gastritis and acidity
Improves digestion
Caution: To be performed under the guidance of a Master. Please do not perform the asana if you have migraine, headache, varicose veins or diarrhea.
— Grand Master Akshar, Akshar Power Yoga Academy, #4004, 100 Feet Road, Indiranagar akshar@aksharyoga.com