In Sanskrit, 'ardha' means 'half', 'namaskar' means 'salutation', 'parsva' means 'side and 'kona' means 'angle'. This, in short, is Half Prayer Twist Pose.
Practicing Half Prayer Twist Pose stimulates manipura chakra. Manipura chakra attracts universal force. It brings out the hidden energy in us. Self-confidence develops, personality gets defined, self-respect gets a boost and you gain the ability to work your way up with courage and determination despite negative influences from the outer world.
Other Benefits of Half Prayer Twist Pose
- The pose improves lung function.
- It stretches and strengthens the spine.
- Back muscles are strengthened.
- Energy levels are increased.
- The pose promotes balance.
- It boosts concentration.
- Regular practice of the pose improves hip flexibility.
- Joints get strengthened.
Instructions
- Go on fours. Your wrists should be directly under your shoulders and your knees should be aligned to your hips.
- Bring your right leg forward and place your right foot between the hands. The right foot should be aligned to right knee.
- Place your left elbow on the outer side of right knee. Keep the left fingers facing upwards. Twist your upper body to the right.
- Lift your right hand off the floor and bring both the palms together. Your right elbow should be pointed upwards.
- Keep your head straight or look upwards.
- Hold the pose for 20 seconds. Get back to fours and repeat the same switching your hands and legs.
Note
In case of difficulty in placing the knee on the floor, place a folded blanket under the knee.
Those with chronic conditions in spine, hip or knees should refrain from practicing the pose.
Those with neck pain can look straight or down instead of looking upwards.
Yoga Pose for Day 52 - Half Waist Wheel Pose (Ardha Kati Chakrasana)
In one of our earlier posts, we had covered the benefits of Half Wheel Pose. The pose for today will be Half Waist Wheel Pose, which is called Ardha Kati Chakrasana in Sanskrit. 'Ardha' means 'half', 'kati' means 'waist'.
Yoga Pose for Day 50 - Chair Pose (Utkatasana)
Chair Pose is the complete version of Half Chair Pose, which we covered yesterday. As mentioned earlier, 'utkata' in Sanskrit means 'intense' and 'powerful'. Practicing Chair Pose in its complete form will give you first hand experience of the meaning of the pose.
Yoga Pose for Day 49 - Half Chair Pose / Half Squat pose (Ardha Utkatasana)
Starting today, we will work on standing yoga poses. The yoga pose for today is Half Chair Pose, which is called Ardha Utkatasana in Sanskrit.
