The Sanskrit word “Dhanu” means “Bow” and “Akarshana” means to “draw”. In this asana, the shape of the body takes on the shape of a drawn-bow. Therefore, the name of this asana is Dhanurakarshanasana.

Technique:

Sit on a carpet or blanket stretching your legs forward. Hold the toe of the right leg with the thumb and index finger of the left hand. Now keep the left leg on the thigh of the right leg after bending it at the knee joint. Hold the toe of the left leg with the thumb and index finger of the right leg and lifting it slowly upwards; bring it near the right ear. You now resemble an archer shooting an arrow. Inhale deeply and hold your breath. After inhalation, hold your breath. Hold this position as long as possible. This is the final position of this asana. Now come to the former position after exhalation. Remove the hands and stretch your legs. Relax comfortably while breathing normally. This asana should be done by altering the position of leg and arm. It is enough to do this asana only once in the beginning. Gradually increase it to 3 times.

Benefits:

It is very beneficial for people who work in a sitting position. People who do writing work in offices must do this asana. Veins of hands and legs and muscles of waist and shoulders become strong. The asana helps sufferers of gout, paralysis, the disease of liver and intestines.