About Yoga

If this asana is practised involving one leg it is called ardha Shalabasana.
The posture resembles a locust hence the name.

Benefits
• Physical:
•	Strengthens the lower back and pelvic organs, tones sciatica nerve, provides relief in backache, mild sciatica, slipped disc as long as the condition is not serious. Tones and improves the function of the liver, abdominal organs, strengthens abdominal muscles, improves appetite and relieves constipation. Stiimulates autonomic nervous system, especially parasympathetic outflow.
• Mental:
•	Encourages concentration and memory.

Techniques:
1. Take a prone position with legs together, chin touching the ground and soles facing up. Lie with face down, hands straight up along the side of the head resting the palms on the floor.
2. Form fists with thumb inside and place the fists under the groin.
3. Inhale and raise the legs at once from the waist without bending at the knees.
4. Contract the buttocks and stretch the thigh muscles.
5. Keep both the legs fully extended and straight.
6. Stay in position as long as you can, with normal breathing.
7. Slowly bring down the legs with exhalation and then come to initial prone posture.