Introduction
Udarakarshanasana is a dynamic yoga pose. Also, it is a part of Shankaprakshalana, the yogic cleansing of the intestines. The pose was first mentioned in Sukhsma Vyayama of Sri Dhirendra Brahmachari. He spelled it Udarakarsasana. Sri Satyananda Saraswati also described the pose in his book Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, and Bandha.
Apart from being a part of yoga cleansing of the intestines, it can also be a part of general yoga practice. Moreover, it is easy to learn and practice. Yet, it is a good yoga exercise for health.
In this article, we discuss its meaning, steps, and benefits.
Udarakarshanasana Information
Pose Name | Udarakarshanasana |
Sanskrit Name | उदराकर्षणासन |
IAST Name | udarākarṣaṇāsana |
English Name | Abdominal Twist Pose |
Difficulty Level | Medium |
Origin | Traditional |
Type | Dynamic abdominal twist |
Udarakarshanasana Meaning
Udara + Aakarshana + Asana = Udarakarshanasana.
In Sanskrit, Udara means stomach, Aakarshana means to stretch, and Asana means a pose. Hence, it is a yoga pose that stretches the stomach. In English, we call it Abdominal Twist Pose or Abdominal Stretch Pose. Often people call it Lower Spine Twist.
Udarakarshanasana Procedure
Precautions and Contraindications
Pregnant ladies and persons having health conditions like hernias, lower back issues, spine issues, knee injuries, and ailments should not practice this yoga pose. Besides, persons having diarrhea should avoid this.
Preparatory Poses
Cow Face Pose and Hero Pose are the best preparatory poses for an Abdominal Twist.
Udarakarshanasana Sequence
Before practicing Abdominal Stretch, one should follow the below-mentioned yoga poses in the sequence. Yet this is only for Shankaprakshalana.
Udarakarshanasana Steps
Step 1
First, assume a seated squatting position. Then, keep the feet apart and place the palms on the knees. Inhale slowly and deeply.
Step 2
Inhaling deeply, bring the right knee to the floor nearest to the left foot. Then, twisting towards the left, Push the left knee towards the right with the help of the left hand. However, keep the inside of the right foot on the floor.
Step 3
Then, Squeeze the lower abdomen with the help of the pressure of both thighs. Look over the left shoulder. Retain the breath for five seconds.
Step 4
Subsequently, exhale and return to starting position. Then, repeat the process on the other side. This constitutes one round. Practice up to five rounds.
Variations
There are two more variations of the pose.
- Supta Udarakarshanasana
- Shava Udarakarshanasana
Udarakarshanasana Benefits
The benefits of the abdominal stretch pose are as follows.
- First of all, it relieves constipation and other digestive disorders.
- Moreover, it compresses and stretches the internal organs of the stomach. Also, it stretches the muscles of the region. Hence it boosts the functions of the internal organs and prevents stomach ailments.
- As a part of the Conch Cleansing yoga pose, it helps to get the benefits of Yogic Conch Cleansing.
- Above all, it removes the excess fat stored in the lower abdomen. Also, it helps in weight management.
- Additionally, it improves lower spine flexibility.