How to practice Makarasana

The meaning of 'Makar' in Sanskrit is Crocodile.  Makarasana is an important pose for all round stretching of the body.  The Makarasana straightens and stretches the muscles of the back, legs, buttocks and the back of the arms and legs.    This pose releases the strain caused by other asanas.  While doing this asana, the body looks similar to a crocodile and hence the name Makarasana.

Step by step to practice Makarasana

Here is a step  by Step procedure to practice Makarasana.

• First lie down on the floor on your stomach with the hands on the sides.  The chin and chest should be touching the ground.
• Now stretch both the legs to full length
• Separate both the legs and put them on the floor such that the toes are pointing outwards and heels inwards
• The feet should be at right angles to the legs
• Now raise your head and trunk and take your right hand under your left shoulder
• Hold the left shoulder gently with the right hand and take the right shoulder with left hand.
• The two hands should be making a double triangle one above the other
• Now place your forehead on the triangle.  Your face should be within the space created by both the arms.
• Now close your eyes and relax your body completely
• Practice abdominal breathing and remain in this position as long as you are comfortable.  It can be 2 to 3 minutes or even more.
• Turn over and lie on your back.  Start again.
 

Here are some of the benefits of Makarasana 

1. Makarasana is very good asana pose for complete relaxation of mind and body
2. Makarasana relieves fatigue after strenuous yoga session
3. Makarasana controls high blood pressure
4. Breathing problems are cured by Makarasana.

Here is a video on how to practice Makarasana.