The Power of great Indian squat: Malasana

Decoding The Power of the Great Indian Squat (Malasana)

Are you struggling with constipation? Have you been seated for too long?Tight hips? Sluggish digestion? Lower backache?Sciatica pains?and more? 

Then the solution to this problem is Malasana, great Indian squat. 

How it is done?

In this asana, you spread your feet shoulder- width apart and hold your hands in namaskar mudra (prayer pose).

Who should be careful while practicing Malasana?

Contradictions: Avoid this asana if you have severe knee issues, especially surgery. Or seek guidance from a qualified teacher.

Why it is called Malasana?

Mala in Sanskrit means garland or rosary. However, some yoga schools dispute this translation. When pronounced with a long 'a' sound, it means garland, but when pronounced with a short 'a' sound, it translates to excrement. 

This latter translation is considered the true origin of the pose name, as it resembles the squatting position used to eliminate waste.

What are the benifits of Malasana?

1.Helps to get rid constipation?

If you were born and raised in India or most of Asia, you will notice that it is the most natural way to sit. Most people in rural and urban India still sit this way, especially while pooping. This position makes scientific sense because it enables proper alignment for easier evacuation.

Did you know that Indian toilets are scientifically designed? Why do we say this? 

When our ancestors sat down on the floor in a squatting position to pass a motion, it enabled a proper alignment for easier evacuation. It was later replaced by Western commodes. Today, many of us struggle to squat. But increasingly. However, in recent years, people have been going back to their roots and adopting squatty potty after realizing the importance of squats.

 Practice Malasana as a part of your morning ritual today before you visit the restroom. This pose enables a smoother and complete bowel movement and is especially useful for individuals who are constipated or complain of incomplete evacuation, flatulence, and bloating. Malasana also helps open tight hips, reduce lower back pain, strengthen glutes, and feel grounded.

2.Improves posture:

It encourages an elongated spine and helps to open up the chest and shoulders. This can lead to improved alignment, which in turn can benefit your overall posture and breathing.

3.Reduced lower back pain

Holding the squat engages the muscles of the lower back and core and helps to reduce lower back pain

4.Beneficial for pregnant women:

It help to open pelvis and increase pelvic muscles preparing them for child birth.

5.Helps in grounding:

Malasana gets your body close to the ground (Mother Earth) and helps you feel safe and calm. It is considered a meditative pose that encourages introspection and self-awareness.

6.Active Root Chakra:

Malasana also activates your root chakra (Muladhara) and unleashes immense urge for grounding, balance, sexuality, vitality. 

Do it anytime and as often as you can. But doing it in the morning on an empty stomach works best. Even when you find yourself sedentary, practice this with mindfulness and intention. 

You can do this asana as long as you are comfortable.

As with any yoga pose, practice and patience are key. If you’re unsure about your form or have any concerns, consider practicing under the guidance of a qualified yoga instructor.