Chakra, from the root cak ("to move") means wheel and therefore this is the Wheel Posture. The chakra-asana is also known as the urdhva-dhanurasana. Urdhva means raised, elevated or upright and dhanur means bow. Both "wheel posture" and "raised bow posture" describe the appearance of this asana. Pronunciation: chu-krah-sa-na
Instructions:
1. Lie flat on the back in the shava-asana (corpse pose). 2. While exhaling bend the knees and bring the feet as close to the buttocks as possible with the soles of the feet flat on the floor. 3. Bend the arms at the elbows and place the palms of the hands flat on the floor directly under each shoulder with the fingers pointing toward the back. 4. While inhaling slowly, begin to raise the head, back, and buttocks off the floor while arching the spine. Continue to press downward on the hands and feet while raising the hips and stomach as high as possible. 5. Hold for the duration of the held inhaled breath. When you can't hold the breath comfortable any longer, slowly exhale and return the back to the floor, slide the legs out straight returning to the shava-asana.
Comments:
The chakra-asana is more challenging than most other yoga postures. Don't be discouraged if you are unable to accomplish it right away. Even attempting this posture without successful completion holds great benefits. First and foremost is the strength and suppleness it restores to the spine. It strengthens the arms, shoulders, and upper back as well and stimulates the cardiovascular system. The chakra- asana has an overall tonic effect on the entire body.
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