Pawanmuktasana is a great Asana to release toxins and abdominal gas. It is a great counterpose for Chakrasana. The back is released and relaxed in this Wind-relieving pose. This reclined posture can be done easily by everyone.

What is so special about this asana?

When hugging your knees, the ascending Colon is compressed on the right side aiding in the uptake of nutrients. While the descending colon is compressed on the left side, which is great for eliminating waste. The transverse colon is massaged when both knees are hugged together against the abdomen. Therefore, a great posture to keep the colon healthy!

Chakra-wise

As the posture is more relaxing, the prana depends more on the breath and the thyroid gland being stimulated. Thus the Swadhisthan and Anahata chakra are subtly affected.

Benefits of Pawanmuktasana

1. Great pose to flatten the spine– After intense backbends or spinal stretches, wind-relieving pose relaxes the vertebrae and the back.
2. Releases toxins from the body- As the stomach and colon are pressed, all the gas is released.
3. Improves digestion–  As the abdominal organs are stimulated and the blood flow is directed towards the stomach.
4. Relaxation pose– The pose is used, post intense asanas, to relax the body and breath.
5. Thyroxine is released–  The hormone  stimulates the consumption of oxygen and thus the metabolism of all cells and tissues in the body. Thus, maintaining hormonal balance in the body.
6. Great ailment for bloated stomach and gas issues.

Pro-tip

Try holding your elbows around the knees.

Contra-indications

Avoid in case of abdominal surgery.

It’s the simple things that can make a big difference. Similarly, the practice of Pawanmuktasana is relaxing and energising, as it prepares us for the next practice. Everytime we hold an asana, chemicals are released, neuron connections are formed. Some are more subtle than the others.

Happy Practice to all!

Iti Jain

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