The Sanskrit word “Hala” means “a plough”. The body assumes the shape of a plough in this asana. Therefore, it is called the halasana.

Technique:

Lie on your back on a carpet or blanket. Keep your hands straight by your side. Palms should be flat on the ground. Now inhale and press the floor with your palms. Slowly raise the legs upward as is done in Uttanpadasan. Keep the legs raised up.
After exhaling, raise the waist. Take the legs backwards towards the head and bring the legs to the ground slowly. Now bend the hands and keep them at the back of your head interlocking the fingers of both hands. Let the feet be together and straight. There should not be any gap between them. This is the final stage of this asana. In the final stage, let the breathing be normal. Hold on this position comfortably as long as possible. Increase the time slowly. In the end, remove the hands and keep them straight by your side and after inhaling return to the original position slowly. Now put the legs on the ground. Breathe normally and relax in Savasana.

Note:

Halasana is not an easy asana. It should be practiced slowly. There should be no jerks.

Benefits:

It is very beneficial for patients suffering from diabetes and Hernia. Barren women may benefit by the practice of this asana. It cures indigestion and increases appetite. It is useful in case of almost all diseases related to the stomach, liver and spleen. The spinal column becomes strong and flexible. The paunch and buttocks are reduced.