Starting Position:
Standing

Concentration:
on the side stretch

Breath:
coordinated with the movement

Repetitions:
3 times on each side

Practice:
Stand with legs slightly apart. Clasp the fingers behind the head and press the elbows slightly back. Upper body and head are in line. During the exercise the body weight remains evenly distributed on both feet. The upper body bends sideways only, not forwards. >Exhaling bend the upper body sideways to the left >Inhaling return to the centre. >Exhaling bend the upper body sideways to the right. >Inhaling return to the centre.

Benefits:
Helps to counteract scoliosis (sideways curvature of the spine) and a rounded back. It strengthens and stretches the muscles along the sides of the abdomen and back. Increases and directs the breath into the sides of the chest.

Asana is included in the following categories:
Asanas and Exercises to Improve Poor Posture and Scoliosis