Yoga for manipura chakra 2

We have all experienced at some time that we feel like we have butterflies in our stomach and there is a certain amount of nervous energy or excitement before any big event in our lives. The manipura chakra stores this energy. In yoga we refer to the gut as our emotional brain and emphasise that it is very important to keep the gut healthy. Problems such as ulcers, diabetes and hypoglycaemia are common problems associated with the manipura being blocked or overused, in fact all digestive and liver problems first arise from a blocked or misaligned solar plexus. In fact the best way to improve our moods and attitudes and centre ourselves is by working on the manipura chakra.

Merudhandasana

Procedure:

1 Lie on your back with your hands by your side at shoulder level.

2 Bend your right leg and place your foot on your left knee.

3 Exhale and twist your body onto the left side till your knee reaches the ground. Turn your head away from the stretch as shown.

4 Hold the posture from 10-30 seconds and repeat the same on the other side.

Benefits

1 Alleviates stiffness and pain in the upper and mid back, makes it more flexible

2 Massages the internal organs of the stomach

3 Stretches the trapeze muscles above the collar bone removing stiffness

4 Controls sciatica pain

Caution

1 Those with severe sciatica should consult their doctor before practising this.

Udyana Bandha

Procedure:

1 Sit in any meditative posture

2 Exhale out forcefully through your mouth while bending forward (as shown)

3 Now suck your stomach in and hold your breath

4 Hold the contraction for as long as comfortable

5 Release the contraction and then inhale

6 Repeat three times a day only

Benefits:

1 Diseases of intestines, stomach and kidneys are controlled by doing this bandha

2 Blood sugar is normalised, Constipation is reduced.

Caution

People suffering from ulcers, hernia, heart trouble and high BP, and pregnant women should not attempt it.

For further details visit artisticyoga.com or call 800-YOGA(800-9642)