In Sanskrit “Hala” means Plow and “Asana” means Pose. Hala or plow is the popular farming tool of Indian agriculture to prepare soil for crops. The final position of this asana resembles the shape of plow so it is called as Plow pose or Halasana. Beneficial in curing obesity, improving flexibility, strengthening the abdominal muscles as well as the nourishing nervous system.
How to do Halasana (Plow Pose)?
- Lie flat on the back like shavasana. Place your palms facing down on the floor.
- Breathe normally before starting next step and relax.
- Now take a deep breath. While exhaling raise your legs over the head, bending at the waist until the toes touch the floor. If you feel difficult to lift your leg backward, you can support your hips with your hands.
- Once you achieve final position, place your palms flat on the ground. Hold this position for a few seconds if you are a beginner. After good practice you can increase timing. In the beginning you may find difficult to hold this position so you can support your lower back with the hands.
- Now, while exhaling release this pose to come into a position of shavasana.
- Repeat this for 3-5 times.
Plow Pose, Halasana Benefits
- Improves flexibility in the spine.
- Cures obesity and helps in weight loss.
- Strengthens back muscles and spine.
- Cures indigestion and constipation.
- Strengthens abdominal area and improve blood circulation.
- Reduces stomach disorder.
- Strengthens neck, shoulder and abs.
- Reduces stress and fatigue.
- Tones your legs.
- Boost immune system.
- Beneficial in curing thyroid problems.
- Strengthens pelvic region.
- Cures menstrual disorder.
Precautions for Halasana
- A High blood pressure patient should not practice halasana.
- Should not practice during pregnancy and periods
- Should not practice if suffering from neck injury, spondylitis, slipped disc, spleen, enlarged thyroid and headache.
- Consult a doctor if you are suffering from any spine problem before practicing plow pose.