74 Light on Yoga
17- Hold in this pose from 20 to 30 seconds, with deep and even
breathing.
7· While balancing, the whole body (except the right leg) is to be
kept parallel to the floor. The right leg, which should be fully
stretched and stiff, should be kept perpendicular to the floor. Pull
the back of the right thigh and stretch the arms and the left leg as if
two persons are pulling you from either end.- Exhale and come back to V!rabhaddisana I. (Plate 14)
9· Repeat the pose on the left side.
Effects
The illustration (Plate 17) conveys the harmony, balance, poise and
power attained by practising this as ana. It helps to contract and tone
the abdominal organs and makes the leg muscles more shapely and
sturdy. It is recommended for runners, as it gives vigour and agility.
All the movements of this asana improve one's bearing and
carriage. When we stand badly, by throwing the weight on the heels,
we retard symmetrical growth and hamper spinal elasticity. Standing
with the weight on the heels causes the stomach to protrude and
lessens bodily and mental agility. This asana helps one to stand firmly
on the soles of the feet, keeps the stomach muscles in and gives agility
to the body and the mind.- Ardha Chandrasana Five* (Plate 1 9)
Ardha means half. Chandra is the moon. The pose resembles the
half moon, hence the name.