Hastishundikasana

(Trunk of an Elephant)

While practicing this asana hands assume shape of 'trunk of an elephant' hence this asana is named Hastishundikasana. Impact of practice of this asana is almost like that of Mahaveerasana.

Hastishundikasana (Trunk of an Elephant)

Method

1. Stretch out legs as shown in picture maintaining a distance of approximately 2 feet between them. Interlock hands.
2. Taking a deep breath in, lift both hands up towards sky.
3. While exhaling, bring both hands down and position them between legs. Take a long and deep breath in, lift hands up, exhale and bring hands down and position between legs.

Duration

Practice of this asana in general conditions is performed at a fast pace. Inhale while taking hands up and exhale when bringing hands down and put them between legs. In normal conditions this asana can be practiced for 10 to 15 times per minute. With thorough practice both time and repetitions can be increased according to capacity.

Effect on Health

With regular practice of this asana, mainly face, waist and hands are influenced. Abdomen and shoulders are also slightly affected. All organs of body develop well and stay healthy. Deep inhalation and exhalation expand lungs capacity thus throwing more oxygen into bloodstream resulting in more blood purification. Practitioner feels fresh and alert.

Practice of this asana mainly influences the thymus, adrenal, thyroid as well as parathyroid glands. All hormones secreted by these glands maintain their balance in body and all respective organs remains healthy.