In the previous article, we had introduced the Gandhari Nadi, its role in balancing the body and how cervical is a symptom of congestion in the Gandhari. We also learnt certain pranayams for regularising the flow of prana in the Gandhari. In this article, we will discuss the asans to stimulate the Gandhari and correct problems of cervical.
Rajju Akarshan Asan. Rajju means rope. If you go to an Akhadaa you’ll see pehelvans practicing by climbing a rope using their hands. Just imagine a big rope hanging in front of you. Hold it with both hands as if you were about to climb it. Begin to move your hands as if climbing the rope by alternately gripping the imaginary rope near your forehead and bringing your hand down straight and letting go. Exhale forcefully when you bring one hand down as if pulling on the rope. Maintain awareness of the lower back region because when you are climbing a rope, that region should be strong enough.
Dhanur Akarshan Asan. Stand straight with your fists behind your neck and elbows pointing up. Stretch your left hand forward as if holding a bow. Bring your right hand forward as if bringing an arrow upto the bow from a quiver. Pull and let go as if shooting an arrow with the bow. Release your breath quickly when you release the arrow. Now repeat the same while reversing the positions of the hands. When you exhale, be aware of the manipoorak. You will actually feel as if an arrow has left the bow and the sound of exhaling should also be similar to that of a quick woosh, the sound is essential. The whole body should have a slight shiver as the arrow is being released.
Ardh Gaumukh Asan. Stand straight with your left hand behind the back from below with your palm facing outward and fingers pointing upward. Take the right hand behind the back from above and catch hold of the left hand and remain so for as long as possible.
The above asans when performed in tandem with Gandhari pranayam have the effect of cleansing the chakra controlling the spine and body balance and strengthening the shoulder/ cervical region. For correct practice, visit a Dhyan Foundation center near you.
Download the Dhyan Foundation – Sanatan Kriya App for Android here and for iOS here.
