In Sanskrit, Hala means “plough,” and Asana means “pose.” Therefore, halasana is also referred to as a plough pose. In this position, the body shows the shape of the Plough. This pose gives flexibility to the spine as well as strengthens the back muscles.
How to do Halasana (Plough Pose)
- Lie on your back with your arms beside you, palms downwards.
- As you inhale, use your abdominal muscles to lift your feet off the floor, raising your legs vertically at a 90-degree angle. Continue to breathe normally and support your hips and back with your hands, lift them off the ground.
- Allow your legs to sweep at a 180-degree angle over your head till your toes touch the floor.
- Your back should be perpendicular to the floor. This may be difficult initially, but make an attempt for a few seconds.
- Hold this pose and let your body relax more and more with each steady breath.
- After about a minute (a few seconds for beginners) of resting in this pose, you may gently bring your legs down on exhalation.
- Avoid jerking your body, while bringing the legs down.
Must know while you do Halasana
Halasana (Plough Pose) Benefits-
- Improves the function of the Thyroid, Parathyroid, Pituitary gland, Endocrine Glands, and Abdominal Organs including the spleen, pancreas, liver and kidneys. and activates the immune system.
- Beneficial for diabetic people because it normalizes blood glucose levels and stimulates internal organs.
- Strengthens the abdominal muscles.
- It helps to make the spinal cord strong and flexible.
- Improves digestion and appetite.
- Effective in Weight Loss.
- Cures the symptoms of menopause.
- It helps to reduce stress, anxiety and fatigue
- It stimulates the reproductive organs.
Halasana Precautions and Contraindications-
Avoid practising this asana if you have the following problems:
- High blood pressure
- Diarrhoea
- Menstruation
- A neck injury, hernia, slipped disc, sciatica, or any serious back problem.