Ardha Pavanmuktasana - Half Wind Relieving Pose

Helps in getting rid of gas

Reduces bloated stomach feeling

Ardha Pavanmuktasana or half wind relieving pose is a supine pose. It is also known as wind releasing pose. And it does exactly what the name suggests. It helps in releasing the trapped gas in the digestive system. It is also spelt as pawanmuktasana.

Asana name in Sanskrit - Ardha Pavanmuktasana

Meaning of the pose name in English - Half Wind Relieving Pose - Pavan or pawan means wind or air. Mukta means release, relief, freeing. Asana means pose, position or posture.

Doing pavan muktasana in the mornings will get rid of the trapped gas in the intestines. That can reduce the possibility of your releasing wind at awkward time and place during the day.

You may start pavanmuktasana with either right or left leg. Just remember to do both legs one after another. I am starting here with right leg.

 

How to do ardha pavanamuktasana?

1. Lie down on the yoga mat on your back. Stretch your legs straight keeping them together. Let your hands be the floor by your side.
2. Lift right leg from the floor bending it at the knee and bringing it closer to the chest. Point the toes.
3. Hug the right knee / leg with your both arms. You may interlace your fingers to pull the leg towards your chest.
4. Lift your head from the floor and touch (or try to touch) the right knee with your chin or head or nose.
5. Keep breathing normally and hold the position for 30 seconds.
6. To release, release your hands and let fall slowly on your sides. Stretch right leg to the floor.

Do the same with your left leg.

1. Lift left leg from the floor bending it at the knee and bringing it closer to the chest.
2. Hug the leftt knee / leg with your both arms.
3. Lift your head from the floor and touch (or try to touch) the left knee with your chin. Hold the position for 30 seconds.
4. To release, release your hands and let fall slowly on your sides. Stretch left leg to the floor.

This completes one set. Doing this twice is more effective.
Tips

1. The movements should not be jerky. While releasing, do it slowly and deliberately.
2. Try to touch the chin to the knee. But stretch your neck only as much as you can easily. You should not find it painful.
3. In the beginning, just bending the knee and raising the neck can be done.

 

Benefits of ardhapavanmuktasana - wind relieving pose

• Helps in getting rid of the trapped gas in the digestive system, in large intestine.
• Improves blood circulation to the digestive system.
• Relieves indigestion and constipation.
• Excessive fat in the thighs, buttocks and tummy, is reduced when done regularly.
• Helps in reducing acidity, dyspepsia and bloating.
• Helps in the treatment of menstrual problems.
• Reduces stiffness in shoulder and waist.
• Can help in the treatment of impotency and sterility.
• Improves flexibility of the knee joints.

 

Caution while doing ardha pawan muktasana

1. This asana should not be done during pregnancy.
2. Avoid this asana if suffering from piles or hernia.
3. If you have any back problem/ pain, avoid doing this pose.
4. Do not do this asana if you had any abdominal surgery.