MODEL: YUKTHA RAJGOPAL
Proper relaxation is essential not only to be active but to be healthy too. Supported forward bends promote deep relaxation. Here is a posture which stimulates the vagal nerves (that carries signals from the digestive system and organs to the brain, and vice versa).
METHOD:
• Sit upright on your heels
• Join the heels and the big toes; rest the hips on the heels
• Keep a bolster (cotton-studded round pillow) in front
• Slowly bend forward and rest the forehead on the bolster
• Keep the bolster such that the trunk is stretched
• Ensure the hips rest on the heels
• Stretch your arms forward
• As you inhale slowly, the abdominal cavity should expand
• As you exhale slowly, the abdominal cavity should contract
• Breathing should be relaxed: four seconds inhalation and six seconds exhalation is good
• Stay about five minutes
• Flex your arms, press your palms and slowly get up