Halasana

It is an extension of Viparitakarani and Sarvangasana. It is recommended to do this asana after Sarvangasana. Hala in Sanskrit means plough. In this posture the body assumes the appearance of a plough. To attain this posture the legs are lowered behind the head without bending those at the knees till the toes touch the seat. This asana can be done for maximum one minute starting with thirty seconds. Benefits This is the best posture for making the spine flexible. It stretches the spine as no other exercise can, opening up the spinal discs and stretching most of the spinal muscles and ligaments. This makes this posture very beneficial if you suffer from back or neck stiffness or arthritis in these areas. It also prevents these conditions. Since this posture rejuvenates the spine, and because the spinal nerves go to all parts of the body, it helps to rejuvenate the whole body. It benefits the thyroid gland, liver and spleen, stretches and pulls the vertebrae. Good for people suffering from stiffness, obesity, muscular rheumatism, enlarged liver and spleen, constipation, indigestion, and arthritis. Calms the brain, reduces stress and fatigue. Helps relieve the symptoms of menopause. Stimulates abdominal organs and thyroid gland.