Light on Yoga: The Bible of Modern Yoga

(^284) Light on Yoga
7· Lower the head to the floor and then the legs. Place the knees on the
floor by the side of the hands, then lift the hands and relax.

8. After mastering this position learn to cross the legs as in
   Padmasana (Plate 104) while practising the posture instead of keeping
   the legs stretched out straight. This variation is known as:


9. Padma Mayuriisana Ten* (Plate 355)

355

Effects

This asana tones up the abdominal portion of the body wonder­

fully. Due to the pressure of the elbows against the abdominal aorta,

blood circulates properly in the abdominal organs. This improves

digestive power, cures ailments of the stomach and spleen, and pre­

vents the accumulation of toxins due to faulty eating habits. Persons

suffering from diabetes will find the pose beneficial. As a peacock

destroys snakes, this asana kills toxins in the body. It also strengthens

the forearms, wrists and elbows.

129. Harrzsiisana Ten* (Plate 356)
     Ha1psa means a swan. This posture is very similar to Maylirasana
     (Plate 354), except that the placing of the hands is different. In
     Mayiirasana the little fingers touch and the fingers point to the fe et,
     whereas in Ha1psasana the hands are so placed that the thumbs touch
     and the fingers point to the head. The posture resembles the plant
     balance in modern gymnastics.

Technique

1. Kneel on the floor with the knees slightly apart.


2. Bend forward and place the palms on the floor. The thumbs should
   touch and the fingers should point forward.