Eka Pada Pranamasana

How to practise

•      Stand upright with feet together and hands by your side; calm your mind and body.
•      Plant feet firmly on ground with body weight equally on both legs and straightened back.
•      Slowly shift body weight on right leg and with strong balance bend left leg.
•      Place sole of left foot on the inside of right thigh (you may take help of hand to place foot), heel should be kept closed to perineum.
•      Left knee should point outside in line with hip.
•      Place the hands in prayer position on heart chakra, keeping elbows in straight line with eyes closed
•      Hold this position for 30 seconds.
•      Slowly release hand and foot.
•      Relax and come into starting position.
•      Change leg and hold the position for 30 seconds for completion of one cycle.
•      Soft breathing throughout the practice.
•      Perform 3-4 cycles.

Benefits

•      Helps increase flexibility in lower body
•      Strengthens leg ankle and foot muscles.
•      Opens and tones pelvic muscles.
•      Balances nervous system

Caution

• Perform this asana slowly with strong body balance.

—Grand Master Akshar, Akshar Power Yoga Academy, #4004, 100 Feet Road, Indiranagar, akshar@aksharyoga.com