New Delhi:
Yoga is not merely a practice for improving physical flexibility; it is also an ancient path towards balancing the mind and spirit. In the Indian yoga tradition, Ashtavakrasana is known as a challenging posture that can help strengthen the arms, engage the abdominal muscles and promote mental stability.
Named after the sage Ashtavakra, the posture may look difficult to perform, but with regular practice it can help develop physical balance and strength. The word “Ashtavakra” literally refers to “eight bends,” associated with the eight physical deformities traditionally attributed to the sage. The word “asana” means posture or pose. Regular practice of Ashtavakrasana can strengthen the arms, wrists, shoulders, hips and core muscles.
According to the Ministry of AYUSH, Ashtavakrasana is an advanced arm-balancing yoga posture dedicated to the sage Ashtavakra. Performing it correctly requires physical balance, upper-body strength and core stability.
Also known as the Eight-Angle Pose, Ashtavakrasana is a modern arm-balancing yoga posture. Holding the body above the ground on the arms, even for a few seconds, requires considerable strength in the core, back and arms.
During the practice of Ashtavakrasana, the practitioner’s arms are bent in a position similar to Chaturanga, while the body is balanced on the arms. The posture also helps develop coordination between the mind and muscles and can contribute to overall body conditioning. Beginners should practise the posture under the guidance of a qualified yoga expert.
According to the general yoga guidelines issued by the Ministry of AYUSH, people with a serious injury or severe pain in the wrists, shoulders, elbows or back should avoid practising this posture. Women should also avoid Ashtavakrasana during pregnancy. People suffering from hernia or carpal tunnel syndrome are advised not to practise it.
