Debosmita Ghosh • 17 Aug 2024
Akarna Dhanurasana: Health Benefits Of The Shooting Bow Pose, How To Do It
Health Benefits Of Akarna Dhanurasana 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 Akarna Dhanurasana. Also known as The Shooting Bow Pose, this asana helps to benefit the spine, arms, thigh and shoulders among others. The name, Akarna Dhanurasana, is derived from the words, ‘A’ which means ‘Near’, ‘Karna’ which means ‘Ear’, ‘Dhanu’ which means ‘Bow’ and ‘Asana’ which means ‘Posture’. When you perform this pose, your body looks like you’re moving a shooting bow pose and hence it is known as The Shooting Bow Pose. This asana is known to have several health benefits.
But first, take a look at how to perform the pose correctly.
- Start by sitting in a simple seated posture with your legs extended in front of you. Keep your back straight and your toes towards you.
- Then, start by bending your right leg, placing your right foot near your right hip and keeping your left leg straight.
- Then, reach out your right hand to your right foot and hold your big toe with your thumb, index and middle fingers.
- Start by inhaling and lifting your right leg and arms, then place your left hand on your left thigh for stability. Then exhale and bend your left leg, bringing your foot close to your chest. Grab the outside of your left foot with your left hand.
- Inhale and lift your left foot towards your left ear as if pulling back a bow. Keep your left elbow bent and your left shoulder relaxed.
- Look straight ahead and focus on a point in front of you.
- Hold this pose for a few seconds, breathe deeply and then breathe out.
- Lower your right foot, straighten your right leg and relax.
Health Benefits of Akarna Dhanurasana
Strengthens Core Muscles
This pose helps to engage the abdominal muscles, thereby, helping to tone and strengthen the core. The improved core stability helps to improve posture and reduces the risk of back pain.
Improves Flexibility
The pose requires you to do a deep stretch which then helps to stretch the hamstrings, calves and hip flexors. Regular practice helps to increase flexibility in these areas, thereby, preventing injuries and improving overall mobility.
Improves Balance and Coordination
This asana requires you to focus and control to maintain the position. This helps to improve balance and coordination which can help improve your performance in other physical activities.
Strengthens the Lower Back
The pose helps to activate the muscles of the lower back which helps in strengthening and supporting the spine. This can also help reduce lower back pain and prevent future back issues.
Stimulates Digestive Organs
The pressure in the abdomen helps to massage the internal organs, especially, the digestive system. This can help to improve digestion and reduce common digestive problems like constipation and bloating.
Reduces Stress
The deep stretch and focused breathing helps to calm the mind and relieve stress. It also encourages mindfulness, which can help reduce anxiety and help in achieving mental clarity.
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