What is Half Wind Relieving Pose?

Half wind relieving pose, or ardha pavanamuktasana in Sanskrit, is a wonderful pose for digestion. The thigh is gently pressed against the abdomen while the practitioner holds an inhalation. It's always practiced with the right leg first to follow the movement of the colon.

Instructions

• Lie on the back.
• Exhale and bring the right knee toward the chest.
• Interlace the fingers around the shin and pull the thigh closer to the chest.
• Inhale to fill the belly, then hold the breath and lift the forehead or chin toward the knee.
• Exhale and release. Repeat several times, then repeat on the left side.

Cautions

• If there's any strain on the neck while lifting the head, keep the head on the ground.

Benefits of Half Wind Relieving Pose

• Stimulates digestion
• Relieves flatulence and constipation
• Stretches the lower back
• Balances the downward apana vayu