Yoga Pose of the Week

Plow Pose- Halasana


Plow Pose gives a deep stretch in the spine, and helps to relieve back pain. It also promotes good digestion, improves flexibility in the legs, stretches the shoulders, and stimulates the abdominal organs and thyroid. Because of the deep stretch that this pose provides to the back, it is especially beneficial to perform in the morning when you wake up in order to decompress any stiffness in the spine. It is also helpful in relieving mild stress and anxiety, and in calming the brain.

Here are a few fun facts about Plow Pose!


1. The name Halasana comes from the Sanskrit word "Hala" which means plow. The name comes from the shape of the pose, which resembles the shape of an old-fashioned plow.

It also is representative of the plow by which our spiritual Self is cleared and purified.

2. Plow Pose is helpful in treating insomnia; but it should not be practiced before bed. Plow calms the mind and the nerves, but it also relieves fatigue and can be stimulating and energizing. It is best to perform early in the day, so it can give your spinal nerves a nourishing release and give you a boost of energy to start your day. 

3. One of the most popular preparatory poses is Sarvangasana- Shoulderstand. If you don't start in Shoulderstand, you can begin lying supine (on your back) on your mat. With your arms at your sides, palms down, contact the abdomen and press down through the palms as you lift your legs, bringing your knees into your chest. Keep your chin tucked into the center of your chest to protect your neck. Move the shoulder blades underneath your body, and bend your elbows, bringing your hands to your low back. Walk the elbows in close together, and keep lifting the legs all the way over your head until your pelvis is stacked directly over your shoulders. 

4. To enhance this pose, (as long as your neck and back are comfortable and you don't feel overly strained)  bring your toes down toward the floor over your head and straighten your legs. You can keep your hands at your low back for support, or you can release your hands down to the mat. You can also draw your shoulder blades closer together and clasp your hands to get a deeper shoulder stretch. 

5. Proper use of props: a folded blanket under the shoulders can be a wonderful added support to take pressure off the neck.

6. Holistic uses of this pose include the treatment of allergies, asthma, the common cold, and digestive problems.