Hatha Yoga Tip

ANJANEYASANA – All levels
An excellent backward-bending exercise, Anjaneyasana also stretches the hips, thighs and legs. It is also a balance posture. When practiced properly inner peace will arise.

From a forward lunge, lower knee and top of back foot to the ground. Lift hands off floor and lift up torso so spine is erect. Chest is lifting upward and body is erect. Inhale, exhale. Bring palms together in namaste at chest. Hold this pose for a few moments to achieve a physical and mental balance.

Next, inhale and reach the hands above the head, elongating the arms up. Exhale, extend the arms back behind the head. The head is between the arms. Keep the palms together and the arms straight alongside the ears. As the arms arch back, allow the body to follow, arching back. Allow hips to stretch forward. Knee is in line and directly above the toes. Hold for several breaths. Repeat with other leg forward.

Benefits:
Opening the front hip crease, legs, thighs and arm pits
An opening of the shoulders, middle back and front of throat
A balance posture

This yoga asana is an edited contribution for the Sivananda Gurugram partly sourced and edited from the Sivananda Publication: “Yoga: Your Home Practice Companion” – Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre – 2010.

Develop pure love. Have a broad vision. – Sri Swami Sivananda