Virasana (Hero Pose) To Aid In Digestion

Add as a preferred source on Google

Indigestion is one common health problem that all of us might have experienced at one point or the other in our day-to-day lives.

It may occur due to existing health problems like ulcer, gallstones, haemorrhoids, etc, or it may be due to poor eating habits or certain food allergies.

The first thing we do when we have indigestion is to pop in one pill or take up some home remedy which works for the time being.

Also Read : Ardha-matsyendrasana For Cervical Pain

All these are just meant to provide an immediate relief, but yoga has been one of the best ways to get rid of the digestion problem permanently. In order to get rid of digestion, Virasana or the Hero Pose is one of the best asanas one could practice.

The word "Virasana" comes from the Sanskrit word "vira" which means brave person or hero and "asana" which means pose.

Also Read: Vasisthasana To Strenghten Arms And Legs

Apart from the indigestion problem, Virasana has been beneficial in treating many other health problems too.

To name a few, it helps improve the flexibility of legs, helps in bringing about a relief for asthmatics, those suffering from arthritis, blood pressure, back and joint pain and in those women who suffer from swelling of the legs during pregnancy.

So, here's a step-wise procedure for the asana and its related benefits. Have a look.

Step-wise Procedure To Perform The Asana:

1. Kneel down on the floor. Place the knees directly under your hip. Rest your hands on your knees.

2. Bring your knees closer to each other, at the same time, widen your feet.

3. The tops of your feet should be pressed firmly against the mat.

4. Slowly lower your hips backwards, so that you sit on the mat and see to it that your hips are right between your heels.

5. Make sure that you are not having any twisting sensation on your knees.

6. Your toes should be pointing backwards and out. The inner ankles should be drawn in, as this will help protect the knees.

7. You'll need to pull in your navel, take a deep breath and sit tall.

8. Stay in the same position for about 30 seconds. Slowly come out of the pose as you went in.

In case of beginners, you could use cushions as props to sit while performing the Virasana.

Few people use this asana for meditative purpose as well. It is not necessary to practice this asana on an empty stomach. This asana can be done in the morning as well as in the evening. However, it is best to practice this in the morning.

Other Benefits Of This Asana:

Helps reduce asthma and BP
Improves the posture
Helps in stretching the spine
Improves blood circulation and relieves pain in the legs
Improves digestion and relieves flatulence-related issue

Caution:

For those who have heart problem, knee or ankle injury, they need to avoid Virasana or else practice it under the guidance of a yoga instructor.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.