AKARSHANA DHANUR ASANA

"Akarshana" means 'pulled' and "dhanur" means 'bow'. In this Asana the final posture of body resembles an archer taking aim before shooting an arrow therefore it is called Akarshana Dhanur Asana. In this Asana you will have to pull the toes up to the ears resembling an archer pulling the string of a bow as he prepares to shoot the arrow.

TECHNIQUE

Sit in Dhanda Asana or in upright position on the floor, with hands on the sides and legs stretched out together.

Akarshana Dhanur Asana

Place palms on the ground on both the sides.

Bend your right leg at the knee, cross it over your left leg and place the foot near the left ankle.

Hold the big toe of the right foot by forming a finger lock with your thumb, index and middle fingers.

Similarly catch your left big toe with the right hand.

Inhale slowly and raise your right foot at the level of the right arm pit.

Try to touch your right big toe to the left ear.

Simultaneously, the right hand should be pulling the left toe.

Concentrate your gaze on the toe of the outstretched leg.

Exhale slowly and lower your right leg and place it near the left ankle.

Release the big toes and bring the legs back to the starting position.

Repeat the same on the other side.

BENEFITS

Within a short span of time all parts of your body get stretched effectively.

Your arms, shoulders, thighs, chest and back gain strength with regular practice of this Asana.

It helps get thighs and waist toned and into shape.

Your calves, thighs, backbone, waist, chest, shoulders and the arms become well proportioned and well developed.