Yoga for stomach problems, kidney pains, and liver problems part 3
Yoga for stomach problems, kidney pains, and liver problems
Ardha-Matsendrasana primarily affects the adrenal glands which are situated above each kidney, thus sending them a richer supply of blood. Thus sluggish kidneys are toned and the posture also benefits a congested liver and spleen. Because it calls into play the deep muscles of the dorsal and lumbar region, the spine is strengthened and made more flexible. People with lumbago should also practise it as it brings relief from this and allied complaints, and those with constipation and digestive troubles would also gain much relief from practising and perfecting the Spinal Twist. Nerves and ligaments of the spine arc subjected to a healthy pull, and the spinal nerve roots and sympathetic system are toned so that this posture beneficially affects the entire organism.
As though all these benefits were not enough this posture confers on all who practise it the grace and flexibility of a ballet dancer.
In figure 51 you will see a posture which is similar to the Spinal Twist with the exception of the upraised right arm. The right arm is held with the upturned palm at shoulder level instead of being wound round the back of the waistline. This variation of the Spinal Twist is known as the SPHINX, and the exercise may be practised thus as a variation of the more strenuous one just described. And for those of you who find the Spinal Twist just that much too difficult, here is a similar asana which will confer almost all the benefits, but to a slightly lesser degree. This exercise is called VAKRASANA or in English THE HALF TWIST.
1. Sit down on the floor with the legs stretched out and your feet together. Bend the left leg and place the foot on the outside of the right knee, with the sole firmly on the floor.
2. Bend the right leg until the heel of it touches the left buttock. Place your hands on the floor on either side of you with your thumbs and fingertips just touching the floor. I have demonstrated the correct position in figure 52, page 155.
3. Inhale slowly and deeply and while exhaling turn the body slowly to the left. Hold this position immobile for as long as you comfortably can and then, while inhaling again slowly return to the starting position. Repeat the movement to the other side, and then relax. Vakrasana can be performed up to six times a day, and do please remember that emphasis should always be on the pressure at the height of the lateral twist rather than on the number of times of performance.
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admin | November 8, 2007