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The #LocustPose strengthens the erector spinae #muscles & the hamstring muscles of the legs. This strengthening helps to ensure adequate #support of the spinal column in all #back bending poses. #Backwardbend poses like this are #powerful for the releasing of back tension & armoring.
Remember that you should never strain your back while performing this pose. #Beginners sometimes have difficulty holding this pose so you can support the area around your lower sternum with a rolled-up blanket to help maintain the #lift of your upper torso. Similarly you can support the front of your thighs with a blanket roll to help support the lift of your #legs.
Benefits:
-Therapeutic application for fatigue, flatulence, constipation, indigestion & #lowerback pain
-Strengthens the muscles of the #spine, buttocks & backs of the arms/legs
-Improves #posture
-Stimulates abdominal organs
-Good for #scoliosis, #kyphosis, #spondylosis & slipped discs
#HowTo:
1) Begin lying down on your belly, legs together & stretched out behind you with the tops of your feet pressing against the floor; arms alongside the body with palms facing down (or up; varies between different #yoga practices).
2) On an inhale, take off by lifting your feet, legs, hands, arms, chest & head off of the mat, lifting as high as you can. Roll your shoulders on to your back & firmly engage your back muscles. Keep feet & toes engaged.
3) Gaze forward or slightly upward, being careful not to jut your chin forward & crunch the back of your neck. Keep the base of the skull lifted & the back of the neck long.
4) #Breathe here for up to 30 seconds, then slowly release on an exhale.
Modifications:
-To lessen the intensity of this pose, keep your feet & legs rooted as you lift only your upper #body.
-For neck injuries, rest your forehead on a block.
-To increase the opening in your chest, interlace your hands behind your back as you lift up.
[References: gaia.com, yogicwayoflife.com, weareyoga.com, yogajournal.com]
#stretchit #Saturday
