Supported Locust

[Shalabhasana]

The Supported Reclining Locust is a downward facing pose that works on taking one’s attention away from the world, setting the space for relaxation while the blocks work on moving the shoulders into place.

Props Required P:- 1/2 bolsters /  2 thickly folded blankets, 2 blocks, Pillow/ blanket

Organising the Pose

1. Set up two blocks, vertically at the top end of your mat, shoulder distance apart and drape a blanket over them, if available.
2. Keep either a pillow or a folded blanket into a small square, to support your forehead.
3. Also place a folded blanket, horizontally across your mat, where it will support your thighs.
4. Lie on your stomach with your forehead on the pillow, shoulders rested on the blocks and frontal  hip bone supported on the folded blanket with the hands on your side with the palms facing upwards.
5. Raise your feet by placing a bolster or folded blanket beneath them.
6. Allow your chest to sink down as the pressure of the blocks moves the head of your shoulders back towards the ceiling.

Use of Props-

1. Go into a deeper backbend by raising the prop beneath your feet
2. If available place eye pillows on your upward facing palms.

Benefits:-

1. Quietens the brain and relaxes the nervous system
2.  Reduces distress and anxiety
3. Reduces tension in the muscles of the back, releasing the lower back.

This pose can be added at the end of your practice or even done on a day when you feel specifically stressed and need to unwind.

Namaste!

Neelanjana Bharadwaj– Yoga Expert