Muni Kishan Lal
While performing this asana, the posture of body resembles a boat, (nauka meaning boat) hence this asana is called Naukasana. The entire body is benefited because all muscles experience stretch during this asana. Naukasana and Hrdayastabhasana are in the same category except that Naukasana is exact opposite of Hrdayastabhasana. Some yogacharyas address this asana as a variation of Hrdayastabhasana.
Naukasana (Boat Posture)
Method
- Lie down on your stomach. Place hands straight out in front on floor.
- Take a deep breath in, stretch hands and legs and lift them off floor.
- Only stomach remains on floor and rest of the body remains stretched and off the floor.
- Exhaling, slowly bring hands and legs back to floor and relax.
Duration
Initially begin with half a minute and then slowly increase practice of this asana by half a minute every week and go up to 3 minutes. Inhale while lifting hands and legs, normal breathing while holding the posture and exhale while bringing them down.
Effect on Health
While practicing Naukasana, every cell of the body gets activated from tips of fingers to the tips of toes, the body gets rid of any nerve related disorder or illness. Body experiences fresh energy and vitality. Heart and lungs also get strengthened with practice of this asana.
Naukasana specially influences thyroid, thymus and adrenal glands and kidneys. The hormones secreted by these glands become balanced. The nervous system is activated. Since there is a balance in secretions of adrenal gland, impulsiveness is curbed. A strong kidney maintains proper blood circulation in the body.
Other Benefits
Along with keeping nervous system strong, developed and healthy, muscle and spine related disorders are also cured. Lethargy disappears and body experiences a new freshness.
