Purvottanasana

(Upward Plank Pose)

(Purr-voht-TAHN-asana)
purvotta = intense stretch of front of body

This pose is complementary to Paschimottanasana, the forwarding bending posture that precedes it; counter posing the extreme forwarding bending action required with both legs extended. This pose/counter pose keeps the spine balanced and healthy, stretching one side of the body while strengthening the other and then reversing it. Purvottanasana stretches the entire front of the body while strengthening the back of the body and legs.

Benefits
Purvottanasana counteracts the effects of a push-up/plank position by stretching the pectoralis major, pectoralis minor, and anterior deltoids.

Nervous system, spine and third chakra (Manipura) are stimulated. Strengthens the arms, wrists and legs. Stretches the shoulders, chest, and front ankles. Strengthens and stretches the heart and lungs. Strengthens lower back, hamstrings, Achilles tendon, and wrists.

Purvottanasana's focus is the 6th chakra or Ajna associated with internal seeing, imagining energy moving, visualizing the bodies energy during the asana. All external and internal changes cease to pose problems. All duality ceases. There is no observed and no observer.

Partnering/Adjusting

Through ones own anatomical limitations the hips will reach a plateau. Perform the pose to student's capacity. Once that height is achieved; hips, thigh muscles and bones are pulled away from the ribs for increased length. Lift your heart and fly!