Chakrasana

(Wheel Posture)

'Chakra' means 'Wheel'. During practice of this asana, body becomes wheel-like and hence it is called Chakrasana. In this posture entire body weight is borne by feet.

Chakrasana (Wheel Posture)

Method

1. Stand straight on floor.
2. Raise hands above towards sky.
3. Inhaling, slowly bend from waist backward maintaining balance.
4. When weight of body increases at back, drop palms on floor and steady body.
5. Return slowly to normal standing position.

There is another easier method to practice this asana. Lie down flat on mat. Inhaling, bend legs and place feet as close to buttocks as possible. Place hands near ears and turn them inwards i.e. hands face ankles and exhale. Inhaling again, lift body upwards. Exhale, when it is brought down.

Duration

Do not practice this asana beyond 3 minutes. Person with spinal problems must not perform this asana. Practice this asana under the guidance of the instructor or guru.

Precautions

It is very essential to be cautious while practicing this asana. Those who are new to practice of this asana, should take help of another while bending body down to floor and while coming back to original position. While taking body backwards, request your helper to place his hand on your back and inform you when you are about to reach floor. If no help is available, practice the second method till you are thoroughly practiced.

Effect on Health

During practice of Chakrasana, spine is greatly influenced. When spine is in its normal erect position, the vertebrae experience contraction. But practice of Chakrasana provide relief to the spinal discs and spine becomes more flexible. Muscles and the nerves of hands and legs become stronger. The stretch felt by the blocked arteries helps to regularise blood flow in them. Healthy intestines reflect in the improved health of body. The unrequired accumulated fat around abdomen and waist disappears reducing obesity.

Influence on Glandular System

Regular practice of Chakrasana influences important glands like Gonads, Adrenal, Thymus and Thyroid. Of the four, the Gonads and Adrenal are influenced to a greater degree. As they experience the pressure during practice of this asana, their secretions remain balanced. Hence the disorders like impulsiveness, rashness, anger and aversion etc. remains under control. Head being in the opposite direction during practice of this asana, blood flow towards brain helps to improve memory power. The adequate pressure experienced by the Thyroid Gland helps balanced growth of body.