Yoga::Ustrasana::Camel Pose


In the yoga that I teach, we hold postures for quite a while. Holding the posture gives the body maximum benefits from assuming the pose...and it's more traditional yoga.

So, I figured it wouldn't hurt to spotlight a pose every week to help you create your own routines...or at least to understand the poses you are already doing. 

I chose to start with camel pose, because, well... there are a number of poses that I personally struggle with, and camel is NOT one of them. Because I feel pretty confident with it, I like it better which means I always look forward to doing it in class. (Don't we all enjoy things more when we feel that we are competent at them?)

First the benefits:
  • Stretches the entire front of the body, the ankles, thighs and groin, abdomen,chest, throat
  • Stretches the hip flexors 
  • Strengthens back muscles
  • Improves posture (Bingo!)
  • Stimulates the organs of the abdomen and neck

So, how do you do it?
First, kneel on the floor with legs about hip distance apart.
Bring your palms, fingers pointing down, to your lower back and begin arching your back.
Move palms of your hands to the soles of your feet, push groin area outwards and gently drop the head back.

Remain in position for 30 seconds to 1 minute. 

To come out, bring your hands to your hip points on the pelvis and pull your torso up. 
Rest in child's pose. 

Namaste Y'all!
xx

Source:http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/688

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