Poses
Locust Pose
Salabhasana
Backbend · intermediate
Glossary: Salabhasana
How to
- Begin by lying face down on your mat with your legs extended straight back and your arms alongside your body, palms facing up.
- On an inhale, engage your core and glutes to lift your head, chest, arms, and legs off the mat, keeping your neck in line with your spine.
- Reach back through your fingertips and extend through your toes, actively engaging your back muscles.
- Ensure your legs are straight and slightly elevated, with the inner thighs rotating slightly towards each other.
- Keep your gaze slightly forward and down to maintain a neutral neck position, avoiding strain.
- Hold the pose for several breaths, focusing on steady inhales and exhales, feeling the lift and expansion in your chest.
- To exit, exhale as you gently lower your body back to the mat, releasing your muscles and resting your head to one side.
Benefits
- Strengthens the muscles of the back, legs, and arms, promoting better posture.
- Improves flexibility in the spine and opens the chest and shoulders.
- Energizes and invigorates the body, reducing fatigue.
- Helps alleviate mild back pain by strengthening the spine and surrounding muscles.
- Promotes focus and concentration through mindful breath awareness and balance.