Naukasana helps in regulating and maximizing oxygen and blood circulation in the lower back and abdomen region at a higher pace, thus helping in elimination of disorder associated with the lower back and abdomen. This posture is very beneficial for people who want to reduce the accumulation of fat from the waist and abdomen and develop abs.
Etymology of Naukasana
The term Naukasana comprises two Sanskrit words: ‘Nauka’ meaning boat and ‘Asana’ meaning posture. The asana has been known by this name, as the position of practitioner assumes the shape of the boat.
Steps for performing Naukasana
1. Lie down with your face towards the sky. Keep your feet joined. Both arms must be placed beside the waist.
2. Breathe in deeply and while breathing out, lift your upper body and legs together. Raise your arms to your shoulder level.
3. Ensure that the toes fingers and eyes are positioned in one line. The edge of your fingers should point towards the toes of the feet. balance your body on the sitting bones.
4. Continue breathing at a normal pace. if the asana is practiced properly, the practitioner must feel some tension in the abdomen due to contraction of abdominal muscles.
5. Maintain this posture for a few moments. to return to the previous position, breathe out and gently lower your legs and upper body. Lie down and relax for some time.
6. Repeat this asana up to 4 times, if you have the capacity to do this. Do not repeat this asana more than 5 times in one yoga session.
Precautions for Beginners/ Practitioner
1. People who are suffering with heart diseases, low blood pressure. asthma, headache, spinal disorders and migraine or any chronic disease should not practice this posture.
2. Women must not practice this posture during the initial 48 hours of menstrual cycle and during pregnancy.
Benefits of practicing Naukasana
1. Maintains and regulates the functioning of lungs, pancreas, liver, kidney, thyroid and prostate.
2. Strengthen the muscles of the neck, shoulder, abdomen, back, hips and thighs.
3. Reduces fat and tones waist, abdomen and thighs.
4. Regulates blood circulation lower in the back and abdomen region.
5. Helps in toning abdomen and development of ABS..