Ashwa Sanchalana
Healing Benefits and Contraindications as observed by experienced Yoga professionals
All benefits mentioned are done by Incorporating Yoga Props and Therapeutic variations into yoga practice thereby making it accessible to individuals of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels
- Improves Flexibility in the hips, hamstrings, and groin: Ashwa Sanchalanasana is a deep hip opener that can be done after ashwa mudra to help improve flexibility in the hips, hamstrings, and groin. This can help to reduce pain and improve range of motion in the lower body.
- Strengthens the Core Muscles: Ashwa Sanchalanasana done before malasana engages the core muscles, such as the rectus abdominis, transverse abdominis, and obliques. This can help to improve posture, reduce back pain, and improve balance and coordination.
- Stimulates the Digestive System: Ashwa Sanchalanasana, if done after a round of uddiyana bandha massages the internal organs, including the stomach, intestines, and liver. This can help to improve digestion and reduce constipation.
- Relieves Stress and Anxiety: Ashwa Sanchalanasana done after tadasana is a calming and restorative combination. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, and promote better sleep.
- Opens the Chest and Lungs: Ashwa Sanchalanasana with yoga blocks helps to open the chest and lungs, which can improve breathing and reduce the risk of respiratory problems.
- Reduces Back Pain: Ashwa Sanchalanasana done with a chair support can help to reduce back pain by stretching the muscles of the back and hamstrings. It can also help to strengthen the core muscles, which can support the spine and reduce pain.
- Relieves Menstrual Cramps: Ashwa Sanchalanasana with yoga blocks can help to relieve menstrual cramps by massaging the reproductive organs and improving circulation.
- Improves Kidney Function: Ashwa Sanchalanasana with belly breathings can help to improve kidney function by massaging the kidneys and improving circulation.
- Promotes Weight Loss: Ashwa Sanchalanasana is a challenging pose which can be done in combination with hastapada asana as a kriya that can help to burn calories and promote weight loss.
Contraindications
- Knee Injuries: If you have a recent or severe knee injury, such as a sprain, strain, or ligament tear, you should avoid or modify this pose with a yoga block. The lunge position can put significant stress on the knees.
- Ankle Injuries: Individuals with ankle injuries, particularly if they affect stability and range of motion, should use caution with Ashwa Sanchalanasana, as it requires balancing on one foot.
- Hip Problems: People with hip issues or conditions like hip arthritis may find it uncomfortable or challenging to perform this pose. It involves hip flexion and extension, which can exacerbate existing problems.
- Lower Back Pain: If you have chronic lower back pain or an acute back injury, this pose may not be suitable for you, as it can place strain on the lower back. Modifications or alternatives should be considered.
- High Blood Pressure: Like many yoga poses, Ashwa Sanchalanasana can cause a rise in blood pressure due to the effort involved. If you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, it's essential to practice this pose mindfully and avoid excessive strain.
- Balance Issues: Individuals with balance problems, dizziness, or vertigo should be cautious when performing this pose, as it requires stability and control.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals should completely avoid or be cautious with Ashwa Sanchalanasana, especially as the pregnancy progresses
- Heart Conditions: People with heart conditions or a history of heart disease should use caution with any yoga pose that involves intense exertion. The deep lunge position in Ashwa Sanchalanasana can be physically demanding.
- Shoulder or Neck Injuries: While the primary focus of this pose is on the lower body, individuals with shoulder or neck injuries should be mindful of their upper body alignment and avoid strain in those areas.
- Recent Abdominal Surgery: If you have had recent abdominal surgery, such as abdominal hernia repair, it's best to avoid this pose until you have fully recovered.
Healing in different types of diseases during the asana practice is attributed to the transformative power of incorporating diverse variations in each pose, fostering physical health, mental well-being and energy alignment.
The nuanced exploration of poses and their modifications with various types of props allows practitioners to address individual needs, promote inner healing, and cultivate a holistic sense of balance, contributing to the therapeutic aspects of yoga.
