Hanumanasana

Hanumanasana is one of the more advanced asanas in hatha yoga. This asana is of utmost spiritual significance, as well as body flexibility. This is named after the giant leap made by Lord Hanumana to reach the Lankan islands from the mainland of India. Though controversies continue of the exact geographical location of the Islands, it is most probable that present day Sri Lanka is the place. This asana is also commonly known as the "splits" in the west, and is an integral part of dance or gymnastics. In yoga, apart from the physical challenge of bringing the legs to an extreme stretch, the mental calm to be practiced along with it is of importance.

To perform the asana in the perfect manner: stand straight with hands held in namaste position, now slowly push your right leg forward and left leg backward, slide both along the ground, experts can slide without wriggling and bending the knees, body facing forward. Finally you lower your body to the ground, with hips square and the legs straight, in a straight line, stretched to the full. If this method seems tough, you can start with supporting your body with pushing the ground with your hands and slowly lowering your trunk. Once your crotch touches the ground, hands should leave the ground and come in the namaste position. One needs to breathe freely and hold this pose for one minute, and think about expanding mental capabilities. Now come up to the standing pose (use hands for support) and repeat on the other side. Advanced yoga experts can swap the legs without leaving the ground.

The benefits are plenty. It makes your legs hips and waist flexible toned and supple. It also cures menstrual problems and regulates flows. It helps in secretion of sex hormones. It also has the effect on the mind, when you think of achieving more in life.

ee also

*List of Hatha yoga postures