The Child?s Posture ? (Balasana)
This posture requires the entire body to be folded in on itself in the fetal position and it is simple for those who are flexible as a child. If you have a need of a posture that does not fold you completely into flexion you can place your hands alongside your head.
For those who have good flexibility in the spine and healthy knee joints this posture will be easy to achieve but for some people this posture may not be comfortable. In that case the use of props such as a small pillow under ankles, between legs and thighs, between thighs and torso and under the forehead can be adopted to gain its benefits.
The Child?s posture is very relaxing and refreshing and it can be hold for as long as desired. It gently stretches the hips, thighs, and the ankles. It also stretches the back muscles and separates the individual vertebrae from each other, releasing pressure on the discs.
It regulates the function of the adrenal glands and it tones the pelvis. It calms the brain and helps relieve stress and fatigue.
The Child?s posture brings lots of benefits to a practitioner; however in a few health conditions this posture should not be practiced.
Three important reasons not to do the Child?s Posture:
1) In case of slipped disc this posture should not be practiced.
(The spine is made up of the vertebrae, which have cartilage discs between them. A slipped disc is when the soft part of the disc bulges through the circle of connective tissue. This prolapse may push on the spinal cord or on the nerve roots).
2) If you have knee injury do not perform this posture.
3) In case of pregnancy avoid practicing this posture.
Caution: Always check with your doctor if you have any doubts or concerns regarding the suitability of this posture for you. It is best to perform this yoga posture in presence of a qualified yoga teacher.
Issued in the interest of people practicing Hatha Yoga by Subodh Gupta, Yoga Expert based in London.
