Shalabhasana, commonly known as “Locust Pose”, is a bending back posture. The Sanskrit name Shalabhasana is derived from two words. Shalabh and asana, where “Shalabh” means “grasshopper” and “asana” means “posture”. This asana strengthens the pelvic organs; At the same time, Shalabhasana has several other benefits, but first, find out how to do it.
Steps to Practice Shalabhasana (Locust Pose)
It is very important to know the correct alignment of the body in an asana to avoid any kind of injury and to reap maximum benefits. Here are the steps to practice Shalabhasana properly:
- Lie on your stomach with legs and feet together, keep the soles of your feet up.
- Place the arms under the body or keep them on the sides, choose the one that comforts you the most. Keep your hands tight and the palms of your hands.
- Stretch the chin slightly forward. Rest the chin on the floor during all the practice of this asana.
- Close your eyes gently, relax your body, inhale deeply. This is the starting position.
- Start slowly lifting your legs as high as you can without forcing. Do not bend your knees, keep your legs straight and tight.
- The high state of the legs is achieved by applying pressure with the arms against the ground while contracting the muscles of the lower back.
- Without straining the body, hold the end position as long as you find it comfortable.
- Exhale and slowly lower the legs on the floor. Return to the starting position. Relax the whole body and turn your head to the side, at your convenience.
- Let the breathing and heart rate return to normal.
Practice 3 times. Shalabhasana is most beneficial when practiced after Bhujangasana (cobra pose) or before Dhanurasana (bow pose).
Precautions for Shalabhasana (Locust Pose)
The precautions to take to keep Shalabhasana are:
- Do not stretch the body while performing this asana.
- Do not bend your knees or raise your chin above the floor.
- This asana is not suitable for people with high blood pressure or a weak heart.
- People suffering from any of these conditions should avoid practicing Shalabhasana: abdominal tuberculosis, hernia, stomach ulcers or any other similar condition.
Benefits of Shalabhasana (Locust placement)
The health benefits of Shalabhasana are:
- Strengthens the lower back and tones the organs of the pelvic area, thus contributing to the proper functioning of the stomach, liver and intestines.
- Beneficial for people suffering from back pain, slipping disc and sciatica, but only if the condition is not serious.
- Improves the functioning of the abdominal organs, especially the lower abdomen.
- Practicing this asana tightens and tones the muscles of the buttocks and arouses the appetite.
Stay healthy, stay strong and get the best out of life.
