Debosmita Ghosh • 23 Jul 2024
Shalabhasana: Health Benefits Of The Locust Pose, How To Do It
Health Benefits Of Shalabhasana and How To Do It
The word yoga means to connect or unite. To connect with the self or divine self or your soul. There are eight different parts of yoga which include yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. When you perform all of these, it helps you to achieve enlightenment. Yoga asanas and pranayama can help to cure several health conditions and manage their symptoms.
There are different yoga asanas and each of them has its own benefits. One of them is Shalabhasana. Also known as the Locust Pose, this asana helps to strengthen the lower back, legs, pelvic organs, hips, and arms and relieves back pain. The name Shalabhasana is derived from the Sanskrit words “Shalabha” which means “locust or grasshopper” and “asana” which means “posture”. This asana is known to have several health benefits.
But first, take a look at how to perform the pose correctly.
- Start by lying on your stomach and keeping your chin on the floor.
- Then, place your arms under your belly. Make sure your hands are under your thigh and your palms are facing downward.
- Breathe in and press your palms against the mat.
- Make sure to keep your legs straight and start raising the legs as high as you can.
- Hold this pose and keep breathing.
- Then breathe out, bring your legs down and relax.
Health Benefits Of Shalabhasana
Strengthens the Back Muscles
Shalabhasana helps to target the muscles of the lower back which help to improve strength and endurance. This can help to reduce chronic back pain and improve posture by improving the stability and flexibility of the spine.
Enhances Core Stability
This pose helps to engage several abdominal muscles which also includes the obliques and transverse abdominis. These play an important role in maintaining core stability. When you have a strong core, it supports the spine and can prevent injuries when you’re performing daily activities.
Improves Digestion
Shalabhasana can help in improving digestive function by stimulating the abdominal organs. The slight pressure on the stomach and intestines can help to massage these organs, thereby, improving digestion and reducing constipation.
Increases Flexibility
Regular practice of this asana helps to increase flexibility in the spine, hips and shoulders. The flexibility can help in the daily range of motion of the joints, thereby, reducing stiffness and preventing injuries.
Boosts Circulation
The pose helps in increased blood flow throughout the body, especially in the lower back and pelvic region. Improved circulation helps in the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscles and organs, thereby, improving overall health.
Reduces Stress and Fatigue
This pose has a calming effect on the nervous system. By reducing tension in the back and neck, it helps to reduce overall stress and fatigue. The deep, mindful breathing practised during the pose also helps in relaxation.
Tones Leg and Arm Muscles
This asana requires you to lift your legs and upper body off the ground, thereby, engaging the muscles in the legs. This not only tones these muscles but also helps to improve their strength and endurance.