Practice:
Lie on the back. >The legs are straight, the arms are beside the body. With the help of the elbows raise the chest far enough from the floor so that the top of the head rests on the floor. Place the left foot on the right thigh close to the hip joint and similarly the right foot on the left thigh. Hold the feet firmly with the hands. >Inhale deeply through the nose and slowly exhale through the mouth. Remain 1 minute in the position. Slowly return to the starting position.

Variation:
Sit in Padmasana. With the help of the elbows bend the upper body back slowly until the top of the head rests on the floor. Bring the palms together in front of the chest. Remain 1/2 - 1 minute in the position inhaling deeply through the nose and slowly exhaling through the mouth. With the help of the elbows return to the starting position.

Benefits:
Stimulates the Vishuddhi Chakra and therefore stimulates function of the thyroid gland. Stretches the throat and chest muscles and strengthens the neck and back. Helpful for asthma, bronchitis and a rounded back.

Caution:
Avoid this Asana with high blood pressure, glaucoma or problems of the cervical spine.

Asana is included in the following categories:
Asanas and Exercises to Activate the Thyroid Gland