Ashtavakrasana Variation

How to practise

• Stand with feet shoulder-distance apart
• Bend knees, place left hand between feet and right hand beside right foot
• Palm should rest firmly on floor
• Lift left leg and place left thigh on left upper arm above elbow
• Bring the right foot forward  closer to the left foot
• Place right foot on left ankle and interlock and lift both the legs up from floor
• Stretch both the legs to left side
• Make sure left arm is between the thighs
•   Left elbow should be slightly bend below thigh for better balance, right hand being straight
• Strike balance on arms
•  Hold this position for as long as you are comfortable and breathe rhythmically
• Straighten arms and torso and slowly come out of final position
• Return to step one and repeat with right leg

Benefits

This posture boosts the flow of energy across the body Strengthens arms, back and stomach muscles Gives power to elbows and shoulders Strengthens the wrists

Massages the internal abdominal organs. Enhances concentration, inner focus and sense of balance. Regular practice of this asana brings endurance, lightness and feeling of euphoria. Improves digestion. Strengthens thighs. It tightens and tones the area of the belly. Improves core strength. Develops the nervous control throughout body and mind. Stretches the hips, thighs, and ankles. Regular practice of this asana brings patience and control over senses

Caution: To be performed under a Master’s guidance. Practitioners with shoulder or wrist injury must proceed very gently.

 — Grand Master Akshar

 Akshar Power Yoga Academy,

 #4004, 100 ft Road, Indiranagar

 m akshar@aksharyoga.com