Marjari Asana (For an erect posture)

This asana is an imitation of certain actions of cats, when they woke up from sleep. It is described here in two stages.

                                     Marjari Asana--Initial Posture

I) Sit in Vajrasana. Then stand on your knees. Bend down the whole body and fix both hands on the ground, just below the shoulders. Now you are standing on four legs. The hands should be firmly fixed on the same position and the distance between them should be similar to that of the distance between the knees. Close the mouth, take deep breath through nose and bring the head and upper body bending back. Simultaneously bend the back bone inwards, just like a moon’s crescent shape.The eyes should face up on the ceiling. (see picture)

                                          Marjari Asana----Final Posture

II) During this stage bend the back bone in the opposite direction, so that it will be in the form of the outer portion of a bow (See picture). At this stage bring the head in between the hands and release the breath forcibly through the mouth with “Ha” sound. In this asana the work is done by the back bone and head alone. Keep the other body parts, especially the hands and feet firmly fixed to the mat.

Benefits:--

This is a very peculiar type of asana. It strengthens the back bone, neck, shoulders and their muscles. To get enough flexibility for the back bone is very important. Some peoples’ body will have a slight forward bent. This bent is prominent in most of the ladies, but it is not visible externally as they cover up their bodies more than gents do.  This asana makes your posture erect, thereby increasing your personality. The reproductive organs of the ladies become more strengthened. Irregular menstruation, leucorrhoea etc. will be cured permanently by regular practice.