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This is the final position. Close the eyes and hold the pose for as long as is comfortable. Slowly release the leg and return to the starting position.
Repeat on the other side. Breathing: Breathe normally while moving into the pose.
Breathe slowly and deeply in the final position. Duration: 1 or 2 times on each side. Awareness: Physical - on maintaining balance.
Spiritual - on anahata chakra. Sequence: Any backward bending asana may be performed
immediately before or after eka pada sirasana. Contra-indications: This posture should not be attempted by
people with slipped disc, sciatica or hernia. Benefits: This asana compresses each side of the abdomen,
thoroughly massaging the internal organs, stimulating peristalsis and removing constipation. It tones the reproductive organs and helps in the treatment of associated disorders. It improves blood circulation in the legs, relieving varicose veins, and in the spine, increasing the level of energy in the chakras. The haemoglobin content
of the blood improves, vitalising the body and mind. Practice note: The right leg should be raised first in order to
massage the internal organs in the natural direction of the digestion. In order to practise this posture, the hips must be extremely flexible.
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