SALABHASANA

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     Salabhasana | Locust Pose | Grasshopper Pose

or Shalabhasana or Locust Pose or Grasshopper Pose is a stretching pose that focuses on the abdomen, thorax, and the upper and lower back. The primary benefits of the yoga Locust Pose are to build flexibility and strength in the back. This pose is a counter-stretch to Paschimothanasana (Seated Forward Bend), Plough Pose (Halasana) and Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand). Before you start the Locust pose, the resting pose is performed by lying down on the stomach rather than the back.  

         Precaution of salabhasana

    The Locust Pose is a great yoga posture, but is not considered practical for most individuals as a posture for meditation. It puts a lot of stress on the hip joints and knee and should be approached with care, especially by beginners. Some of the Locust Pose precautions include avoiding this pose if you have injured or weak knees as a lot of stress is put on the knees. Also, refrain from practicing this pose if you have sciatica. You should also avoid this pose if you have an injury to the ankle.

           Procedure of salabhasana

    • Lie on your stomach, arms by your side, palms facing down, the front of your chin is on the floor.
    • Lengthen your lower back by gently pressing your pubic bone into the floor, and pull your navel in towards the spine as you exhale.
    • Engage your leg muscles.
    • Inhale lift your head, chest, arms and legs off the floor, firming your shoulder blades onto your back, and so opening your heart. You can imagine someone holding your hands and pulling you back, to come up higher.
    • Feet are drawn towards the mid-line but do not have to be touching, you can keep them hip-width apart.
    • Hold the pose for 5 breaths making sure breathing remains calm and steady.
    • Exhale to lower out of the pose then repeat another two times.
    • Rest in between each pose by making a pillow for your cheek with your arms and letting your heels drop away from each other. 

           Benefits of salabhasana

    • Strengthens the muscles in the lower back.
    • Improves flexibility in the back.
    • Particularly recommended for relieving lower back pain and sciatica.
    • Massages to the internal organs.
    • Improves digestion.
    • Strengthens the shoulders and arms.