The word yoga means to join or unite. Connecting with the self or the divine spirit or your soul. There are eight different parts of yoga which include yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. When you practice all of these, it helps you achieve enlightenment. Yoga asanas and pranayama can help cure many health conditions and manage their symptoms.

There are many yoga postures and each one has its own benefits. One of them is Hanumanasana.It is also known as ‘. Monkey PoseThis asana helps to open the hips and stretch the muscles in the groin and hamstring region. The name Hanumanasana is derived from the Sanskrit words, ‘Hanuman’ meaning ‘Lord Hanuman’ and ‘asana’ meaning ‘posture’. When you complete this pose, your body resembles the long leap of Lord Hanuman and hence it is known as the monkey pose. This asana is known to have many health benefits.

But first, let us see how to do this asana correctly.

• Start by kneeling on the floor with your knees slightly apart. Place your right foot forward and lift the inner sole so that only the outer heel touches the floor.
• Exhale and bend your torso forward and touch your fingers to the floor.
• Slowly move your left knee backward until the knee and the front of the foot touch the ground. At the same time, slide your right foot forward until it completely touches the ground.
• Get into a split position by sliding your left foot back and your right foot forward.
• The toes of the right foot should be towards the ceiling and the front part of the left foot should touch the ground.
• Raise your arms up and join your palms. Spread your arms and bend your back slightly.
• Stay in this position for a few breaths before bringing your arms back down.
• To come out of this pose, press your hands into the floor and put your body weight on them. Slowly bring your left and right legs back to the starting position and then repeat the pose with your left leg forward and your right leg back.

health benefits of hanumanasana

Improves flexibility

This pose helps stretch the hamstrings, hip flexors, and groin. When you practice it regularly, it helps increase the range of motion in these areas, increasing overall flexibility.

Makes muscles stronger

This asana helps strengthen the muscles of the legs and core. Activating these muscles while performing the asana helps build strength, especially in the thighs, glutes, and lower abdomen.

Improves hip mobility

This pose requires a lot of flexibility in the hips. Practicing this pose helps loosen the hip joints, which improves mobility and reduces the risk of hip problems. It can be extremely beneficial for athletes and people with a sedentary lifestyle.

helps with balance and stability

Holding this pose requires strong balance and stability. Activating the core and grounding through the feet helps improve balance over time. This is also important for other yoga postures and your daily activities.

Improves blood circulation

This pose helps blood flow to the legs, hips, and lower back. Improved blood circulation can help with muscle recovery and improve overall heart health.

Reduces sciatica pain

By stretching the hamstrings and lower back, this pose can help reduce sciatica pain. This pose releases tension along the sciatic nerve pathway, relieving discomfort caused by tight muscles or nerve compression.

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