Anantasana

The name comes from the Sanskrit words ‘ananta ‘ meaning the infinite one, derived from the name of the thousand-headed serpent head upon which Vishnu rested at the bottom of the primordial ocean, ‘asana’ meaning posture.

Instructions: Lie on the floor on your right side. Stretch your right arm and leg straight out along the floor so that the heels, hips and the shoulder are in one line. Bend your right elbow and support your head in your palm. Ensure that the elbow is kept away from the body and the armpit is stretched.  Exhale and raise the left leg upwards rotating it slightly so that the toes point toward the ceiling and the knee towards your torso. Raise the left arm and clasp the left big toe with your index and middle fingers. Secure the grip by wrapping the thumb around the two fingers. Breathe calmly and stay in the pose for 40-60 seconds. Then, release and wait for a few moments. Repeat this pose as you turn to your left side, and do it with your right leg for the same amount of time. Do three rounds at least.

Benefits:

• It tones the abdominal muscles and improves digestion.
• It stretches and helps reduce fat around the waist, legs and the hips.
• It increases the flexibility of the spine and the leg muscles.
• It stretched and strengthens the hamstrings and the pelvic region.
• This helps cure hypertension, arthritis, colitis, hypertension and sciatica.
• It helps relieve stress and tension.
• It helps cure disorders related to the uterus, urinary bladder, ovaries and the prostate.

Caution:

• Avoid practicing this asana if you have pain in your neck or shoulders. All persons with spinal issues must do the asana under supervision.