Pranamasana is also known as the Mountain Pose, this is the first and last posture of the Surya Namaskar. Pranamasana is typically practised with the Anjali Mudra, in which both palms are pressed together and placed close to the heart.
In Hindu culture, this is a common way of greeting. It is believed that by bringing both the palms together, the right and left hemispheres of the brain connect.
In yogic terms, this represents the unification of our active and receptive natures. According to the yogic tradition, the heart chakra is visualized as a lotus at the centre of the chest. This mudra encourages the lotus heart to gently open up with awareness.
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How to do Pranamasana
- Stand at the edge of your mat, keep your feet together and balance your weight equally on both feet.
- Expand your chest and relax your shoulders.
- As you breathe in, lift both your arms up from the sides and as you exhale, bring your palms together in front of the chest in a prayer position.
Uses of Pranamasana
- It creates a sense of relaxation and concentration.
- This asana focuses on the lower part of the body.
- It strengthens the thighs, knees, and ankles, and firms up the abdomen and buttocks.
- It can also relieve sciatica, reduce flat feet, and improve posture.