The backbending yoga pose we are about to see today is Arc of the Moon Pose. While performing the pose, the shape of the body resembles moon's arc. 'Pirai' in Sanskrit means 'Arc of the moon'. The pose strengthens and tones the hips. It is an effective counter pose Hand to Feet Pose. In this pose, shoulders to fingers are stretched on the inside of hands. Channels that energize heart and lungs, the major organs of the body are situated on the inside of hands. Stretching the same causes flow of energy to these organs and strengthens the same.
Arc is the beginning of Full Moon. Since the pose serves as a stepping stone towards complete health, it can be rightly called Arc of the Moon Pose.
Visit this page for Hand to Feet Pose benefits.
Benefits of Arc of the Moon Pose
As mentioned above, Arc of the Moon Pose, improves functions of heart and lungs. Other benefits include:
- It helps to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
- It promotes functions of respiratory system.
- The pose improves flexibility of spine.
- It also strengthens the spine.
- The pose strengthens hip muscles.
Instructions
Let us see how to do Arc of the Moon Pose.
- Stand on the mat with some space between your feet.
- Lift your hands upwards.
- Inhale as you bend backwards. The upper arms should be close to the ears.
- Palms should be facing upwards.
- Hold the pose for 20 seconds. Exhale and release the pose.
Note
Bend only as much as your flexibility allows.
Those with severe neck and shoulder conditions should refrain from practicing the pose.
Yoga Pose for Day 11 – Thunderbolt Pose (Vajrasana)
Thunderbolt Pose is yet another seated yoga pose that offers amazing benefits and ranks along with Lotus Pose as one of the best meditation poses. ‘Vajra’ means ‘diamond ‘ and since the pose makes the body as strong as diamond
Yoga Pose for Day 10 - Standing Bow Pose
Standing Backbend Bow Pose, which can be performed as a counter pose to Wide-Legged Forward Bend ‘Nindra’ in Sanskrit means ‘standing’ and ‘dhanur’ means ‘bow’. Bow Pose can be performed in prone state or in standing state. The pose offers amazing benefits.
Yoga Pose for Day 8 – Half-Wheel Pose (Ardha Chakrasana)
Half Wheel Pose is a simple backbend pose, which also serves as a counter pose to Big Toe Pose. This is called Ardha Chakrasana in Sanskrit. The stretching of hamstrings when you perform a forward bend is relaxed while practicing Half-Wheel Pose. The pose also stretches the muscles on the front sides of the legs,
