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Advanced practitioners may exhale after returning to the
starting position. Duration: Up to 5 rounds when performed dynamically. Up
to 3 rounds when performed statically. Awareness: Physical - on synchronising the breath with the
movement or on the lower back, abdomen and heart.
Spiritual - on vishuddhi chakra. Sequence: Most beneficial when performed after bhujangasana
and before dhanurasana. Contra-indications: Shalabhasana requires a great deal of
physical effort, so it should not be practised by people with a weak heart, coronary thrombosis or high blood pressure. Those suffering from peptic ulcer, hernia, intestinal tuberculosis and other such conditions are also advised
not to practise this asana. Benefits: The parasympathetic nerves are particularly prom
inent in the regions of the neck and pelvis. Shalabhasana stimulates the whole autonomic nervous system, especially the parasympathetic outflow. It strengthens the lower back and pelvic organs, and tones the sciatic nerves, providing relief for those with conditions such as backache, mild sciatica and slipped disc as long as the condition is not serious. It tones and balances the functioning of the liver and other abdominal organs, alleviates diseases of the stomach and bowels, and stimulates the appetite.
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