Pavanamuktasana : The Wind Relieving Pose

The Sanskrit word pawana means air or wind and mukta means freedom or release, therefore this is the "wind relieving posture" so named because it assists in releasing trapped digestive gas from the stomach and intestines. Pavanamuktasana is a reclined yoga posture that is suitable for everyone, from beginners to advanced practitioners. The pose gently massages the abdominal organs, releasing tension in the belly area and low back

Pavanamuktasana : The Wind Relieving Pose - Detailed Description

Steps:

1. Lie flat on the back in the shava-asana.
2. Inhale and bend the right knee and pull it close to the torso with both hands while interlocking the fingers just below the knee. Keep the left leg flat on the floor.
3. Hold the inhaled breath for a few seconds then exhale slowly through the nostrils and lift the back, shoulders and head off the floor and touch the knee with the forehead.
4. Hold the exhaled breath for a few seconds then slowly inhale and return the back, shoulders and head to the floor. Remain holding the knee.
5. Hold the inhaled breath for a few seconds then exhale while bringing the right leg to the floor.
6. Lie flat on the back in the shava-asana for a few seconds then repeat beginning with the left leg.
7. Hold each of the four parts of this posture (corresponding with the held breaths) for three to five seconds each. Repeat the purvasa-mukta-asana three to five times on each side.

Benefits:

• This asana helps in removing the gases accumulated in the digestive tract. It is good for relieving pain in the back or abdomen. It improves the functioning of liver, spleen, stomach, kidneys and pancreas. Helps to tone the abdomen and develops elasticity in the diaphragm.