Pavanamuktasana - Wind Removing Pose

Submitted by Kevin Pederson on November 9, 2010

Pavanamuktasana (Wind Relieving Pose) is a very effective posture to get rid of gas from the intestines and stomach, thereby improving the functioning of the digestive system. The meaning of “pavan” is “wind” and “mukta” is to “free or relieve.” Performing the Pavanamuktasana or Wind Relieving Pose also helps in stretching and toning the lower back. The pavanamuktasana or wind relieving pose is considered to be effective for those suffering from joint pains and sciatica. Also, performing the Pavanamuktasana, a wind removing pose, helps in stimulating the large and small intestines as well as the liver and spleen.

To perform the pavanamuktasana or wind relieving pose you should be in the lying position. Bring your left knee up and let your hands wrap around them. Let your head come towards your knee, take a breath and release. Do the same with your right knee. You could also rock gently in a constant rhythm. When performing Pavanamuktasana make sure to avoid bringing the buttocks or lower back away from the ground. You should see to it that the leg which is resting on the ground is kept straight. This posture is also beneficial in providing a massage to the abdominal organs and performing the rocking motion will help reduce any stiffness present in the spine.

You could also practice the Ardha Pavanamuktasana (Half Wind Relieving Pose). To perform this posture you should position yourself on your back and keep your arms at your side. Let your right knee bend while bringing your hands around it. Bring your chin to touch your knee and remain in this position for 10 to 30 seconds. Then do the same with the other leg. Individuals who suffer from cervical spondylitis should avoid raising their head.

Vajrasana (Diamond Pose) is an effective posture for digestion and other stomach disorders. You could also use Vajrasana as a wind removing pose. Performing Vajrasana on a regular basis will prevent the formation of excess gas in the intestines and stomach.

Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) is another effective yoga posture in which pressure is put on the stomach. This helps with constipation and acute gas problems. Therefore, you can also practice Bhujangasana as a wind removing pose. Upavistha Konasana (Wide Seated Forward Bend) is a useful posture in stimulating the abdominal organs. By practicing Upavistha Konasana and wind removing poses you can develop healthy functioning of the abdominal organs as well as a toned mid-section. If you’ve had a stomach operation or suffer from piles or hernia make sure to consult qualified instructor.

Pavan means wind, mukta means relieve or free and asana means pose. This asana is similar to many other yoga poses based on nature. It is being used to foretell the strength and power of the wind from within. It helps in removing the toxic gas present in your body. It creates space for fresh air in the body to create maximum utilization of the bodily resources.

This yoga pose would improve the digestive system very well. It would do real wonders to your stomach as the excess gas is being removed from the abdomen. The intestines also function better due to the removal of the gas. You can get rid of constipation by initiating this exercise in your life. The use of legs, hands and hips strengthens the hip muscles.

It is termed to be very useful for patients who suffer from sciatica and joint pains. It releases the muscles of the lower back creating an environment of relaxation for your body. The way this asana is performed it helps in massaging the colon. Any irritation with the bowel movement is also cleared while doing the asana properly.

This exercise stimulates your liver, small and large intestine as well as the spleen. The abdominal area is very well strengthened by the performing pavanamuktasana. Your sagging body attains a level of firmness to perk you up. The abdomen, thigh and hip area are toned while performing the asana. Our body is well equipped to produce acids; pavanamuktasana normalizes that level. It brings hydrochloric acid to a normal level.

Problems relating to acidity are averted. If you are facing any back problems that is also cleared. It is a good exercise for the abdominal muscles as it tones the abdominal wall making much stronger and useful. This wind removing technique helps the entire body. It purifies the impure air creating a fresh supply of blood to the entire body. Level of diabetes improves so does your blood pressure.

It may look simple and easy to perform this asana but do not get fooled by it. If need be you can take help of any of your friends or your yoga instructor while doing this asana. The key element about performing this asana is the inhaling and exhaling part. You should do this at least for three to five minutes.

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautions before following any of the asanas from this article and the site. To avoid any problems while doing the asanas, it is advised that you consult a doctor and a yoga instructor. The responsibility lies solely with the reader and not with the site or the writer.