RESULTS OF THE SALABHASANA
The beneficial effects of the SALABHASANA can be summarized thus:
1st - Spinal Column Strengthening
Extraordinary strengthening of all the muscles of the spinal column, particularly those of the lumbar and dorsal region.
2nd - Abdominal Organs Enhancement
Notable improvement in the functioning of all the abdominal organs: stomach, liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, intestines, etc., through the internal massage that this posture produces.
3rd - Digestive System Optimization
Remarkable improvement of digestion and elimination of digestive disorders.
4th - Reproductive System Tonification
Tonification of the organs of generation and notable improvement of their functions.
5th - Nervous System Integration
Strengthening of the sympathetic nervous system and improvement of its coordination with the cerebro-spinal system.
6th - Circulation Enhancement
Greater flow of blood to the spinal column and to all the organs put in movement by this posture.
7th - Respiratory Development
Development of respiratory capacity through the expansion of the chest and the strengthening of the respiratory muscles.
8th - Postural Correction
Correction of defects of posture and spinal curvatures, particularly those of the lumbar region.
9th - Vital Energy Increase
Notable increase of vital energy (Prana) and general sensation of strength and well-being.
10th - Therapeutic Applications
Progressive cure of various ailments: constipation, dyspepsia, hepatic disorders, renal affections, menstrual irregularities in women, and weakness of the reproductive organs.
11th - Psychological Benefits
Development of will power and mental concentration through the sustained effort required by the posture.
12th - Aesthetic Enhancement
Improvement of the external aspect of the body through the harmonious development of the back muscles and the correction of postural defects.
THE ANATOMICAL UNDERSTANDING
The SALABHASANA works particularly on what in yoguistic anatomy is called the POSTERIOR CHAIN, that is, all the muscles that extend from the nape of the neck to the heels along the back part of the body.
This posterior chain includes:
- The extensors of the neck
- The dorsal and lumbar muscles
- The gluteal muscles
- The muscles of the posterior part of the thighs (biceps femoris)
- The muscles of the calves (gastrocnemius and soleus)
THE ENERGETIC EFFECTS
From the point of view of subtle energies, the SALABHASANA has the effect of activating what the yogis call PINGALA NADI, the solar current that ascends along the right side of the spinal column.
This activation produces:
- Increase of bodily heat
- Stimulation of the digestive fire (Agni)
- Development of dynamic energy
- Strengthening of the will