The Yogic science has provided a plethora of poses and asanas, which alter the course of the functionality of the body and mind to their best interest. ‘Balasana’ is said to be one of the asanas for beginners to aid them in reaping the benefits of a balanced lifestyle.
The word ‘Balasana’ has been derived from the Sanskrit words ‘Bala’ and ‘asana’, which translates to ‘child’s pose’. It is named so as it refers to the basic fetal position and the consequent child-like vulnerabilities that may be experienced as a result of the pose.
It is also believed that this pose lets a person connect to the primal memories of being in the womb. When performed, this pose resembles a child taking rest. Contrary to the West, bowing one’s forehead on the floor is a dignified act of humility in its original Indian context. Balasana is a counter asana for various asanas and is practised before and after Sirsasana.
Steps to perform Balasana
Step 1
For commencement of the asana, first, sit on the knees with the buttocks touching on your heels.
Step 2
Place your hand on thighs and palms down.
Step 3
While exhaling slowly, bring your chest between your knees and swinging hands forward.
Step 4
Alternately, you can reach out your arms towards the front of the yoga mat, palms placed facing down in mat.
Step 5
Now retain this pose and gently press your chest on the thighs (on between the thighs if the latter are apart.
Step 6
Hold for 45 seconds to 1 minute. Try regulating the breadth.
Step 7
As you inhale, image your breath to be driven through your navel and pull your navel towards your spine.
Step 8
At the time of exhaling, soften your body arms. Repeat for 4 to 12 breaths.
Step 9
Place your arms under the shoulders and gradually raise your upper body to return to the sitting position on the heels while inhaling. Do this very slowly to feel the experience within
Step 10
Relax.
Contraindications
This pose should not be performed if you fall in any of the below categories:
- Pregnant women
- The patient suffering from diarrhea.
- Knee injury
- Infection in stomach
- Severe spondylitis
- People suffering from high or low blood pressure.
Balasana Benefits
Calms the mind.
When you rest the forehead (namely eye or spot between the eyebrows) on the ground, it has an immediate soothing effect on the brain. The world today is tormented with challenges and tribulations. Balasana can reduce the level of anxiety in the mind. It re-writes your brain so those neutral pathways responsible for fear and anxious thoughts are weakened.
Improves Digestion
Through the regular practice of Balasana, one can improve the digestive system. Performing the pose with stomach resting on the top of the thighs, massages the internal organs and helps move the digestion along. As the asanas involve rigorous inhaling and exhaling of breath, it induces an oscillatory motion of the abdomen into the legs, which in turn helps with acidity and indigestion
Removes fatigue
At the end of the day, our bodies get overworked and tiredness crept in the mind after all the exhaustion. Child pose is a natural and effective way of releasing body fatigue. The forward fold of the body and regulated breath help release all the tensions of the body and transport s the body into a relaxation state
Enhanced Blood circulation
Balasana is known to stir the blood circulation process within the body if practiced regularly. Increased blood circulation is one of them that helps in the optimal functioning of the various organs and renders overall well-being. With the regulation breathing practices of this asana, the veins can carry purified blood, which helps in regulating the blood pressure of the body
See Also: Yoga Asanas to Boost Your Heart’s Health
Strengthens ligaments and knees
Lack of proper ligament strength leads to various joint and muscle pain and can also be the cause of spondylitis, arthritis, and other fatal diseases. Ligaments of the knee help to stabilize the joints and connects to the bone. Devoid of this, the knee joints will be too loose that give to various health issues. The act of performing Balasana gently stretches and strengthens the tendons and ligaments of the knee.
So it is highly advisable to revive the body strength, vitality, and wellness with regular practice of Balasana.
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