Light on Yoga: The Bible of Modern Yoga

102 Light on Yoga

the ribs or the pelvic bones on the floor. Only the abdomen bears the

weight of the body on the floor.

5· While raising the legs do not join them at the knees, for then the legs

will not be lifted high enough. After the full stretch upwards has been

achieved, join together the thighs, the knees and the ankles.

6. Since the abdomen is extended, the breathing will be fast, but do not
   worry about it. Stay in the pose to your capacity from 20 seconds to
   one minute.

7· Then, with an exhalation, release the ankles, stretch the legs straight,

bring the head and the legs back to the floor and relax.

Effects

In this posture the spine is stretched back. Elderly people do not normally

do this, so their spines get rigid. This asana brings back elasticity to the

spine and tones the abdominal organs. In my experience, persons suffer­

ing from slipped d�scs have obtained relief by the regular practice of

Dhanurasana and Salabhasana (Plate 6o) without being forced to rest

or to undergo surgical treatment.

28. Pa rsva Dhanurasana Four* (P_lates 64 and 65)
    Parsva means sideways. In this variation of Dhanurasana, one performs
    the posture lying on one's side.

Technque i

I. Perform Dhanurasana. (Plate 63)