I remember when I first started practicing yoga, the Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose) used to be my least favourite pose. It felt really uncomfortable and even gave me a back ache sometimes. I put it down to being overweight. I thought that because I was heavy, my hands were unable to support the weight of my lower body. Of course now I know better. And now I come across so many people who don’t! So many people tell me that their arms are not strong enough or their thighs/hips/butt are/is too big/heavy which prevents them from doing this pose well. Study your technique. The key to any yogasana lies in the technique. Study your technique.
Benefits of the Setubandhasana:
- Stretches the chest, neck, and spine
- Strengthens the core muscles and the legs.
- Enables blood flow to the brain and this helps in reducing stress and bringing about a feeling of rejuvenation and wellbeing.
- Provides an excellent massage to the abdominal organs.
- Massages the Thyroid gland.
- Helps in reducing discomfort during
- Reduces discomfort and pain during menstruation.
To avoid making the mistakes I did when practicing this asana remember to:
- Evenly distribute your weight on the soles of your feet.
- Push your soles into the floor evenly.
- Engage the thighs and the core muscles.
- Roll your shoulders back and away from your ears.
- Using your legs push your chest closer to the chin.
- Keep the back of your neck long and pushed against the floor.
