Yoga Posture to Restore Balance in Hips, Legs and Lower Back (janu shirshasana)

This Yoga posture, known as Janu Shirshasana, can be used to restore balance between legs, hips and the lumbar area as well as to relieve pain in those areas.

Many of us tend to favor one side when we stand, walk and sit. However, since we do this regularly and , most likely unconsciously, many of us don’t notice the imbalance that has built gradually over time.

This simple yoga posture, called Janu Shirshasana in Sanskrit, is an excellent way to determine if there might be an imbalance between the two sides. Even better, by practicing the posture twice on the side that is more challenged by it, we can gradually restore balance.

Of course, it is important to remember to practice with patient persistence and without creating new pain or agitation. Also, notice that having an attitude of gratitude and ease will make the practice easier and more enjoyable.

While you practice, please keep in mind:

• Pay close attention to what is happening in body, breath and mind.
• Do not force or strain.
• Do what you can, not too much, not too little.
• Keep your spine long.
• Breathe at full capacity and without struggling.
• Enjoy the practice as a journey of self-exploration.

I hope that you find this video useful.
[youtube=http://youtu.be/Nlh4YMpDglU&w=420&rel=0]

Namaste.