By Atul Vyas
Surya is the remover of the veil covering the face of truth as well as controller of all, says Ishavasya Upanishad.
Surya, the sun represents the Supreme principle – first in non-manifest and then in manifest form. Sun salutation is the name given to this dynamic exercise because it induces the inflow of pure vital air in sufficient quantities which makes the body glow like the Sun.
The twelfth pose is called Hasta Uttanasana or raised arms pose. It is a very simple pose that is extremely beneficial for people suffering from tuberculosis, Asthma, and chronic bronchitis. These can be effectively tackled with this pose. People suffering from weakness of the heart also benefit from its tonic effects.
Technique :
- Moving from Padhastasana, raise yourself to the standing position with arms above the head covering ears and palms facing forward
- Take your weight onto your heels and look upwards and arch your arms, head, and chest backward i.e. leaning back by bending the spine
- Breathe normally
- Focus on vishudhi chakra
This pose combines the benefits of pranayama, as well as the physio-therapeutic effect on the muscles and joints of the thoracic cage. The increased mobility of the ribs makes respiration very efficient. In this pose, one should breathe as deeply as possible, which would facilitate the movement of fresh air into the lungs. Due to the creation of negative thoracic pressure by the back bending a lot of blood is pumped into the heart. At the same time, the Vegas centers in the brain are stimulated by the impulses generated in the lung on account of stretching of Alveoli. The stimulation of Vegas results in slowing down of the heart which allows more time for rest to the heart after each contraction. This increase of the period of relaxation nourishes the heart and enables it to contract more forcibly. This pose gives much-needed rest to the heart.
Benefits:
- Stimulate blood circulation
- The throat chakra is stimulated
- Keeps lung elastic
- Stimulates cardiac plexus and plays an important role in the awakening of latent powers
(The author likes to be called a “Yoga Scientist.” He is a celebrity yoga trainer and has trained several top Hollywood and Bollywood stars. He has trained for years under many eminent yoga gurus including his illustrious mother Daya Vyas, the first lady yoga guru of India.)
