Tortoise Pose / Kurmasana
Just as the name suggests, ‘Kurma’, Sanskrit term for ‘tortoise’, eliminates the outer world from your mind and draws your mind inwards to focus on the ‘inner you’. Naturally, it is mentally challenging just as it physically is. Tortoise Pose is one of the best hip opener poses with various other benefits to offer. Procedure Sit down on the mat with your legs stretched forwards and your hands by the sides. Keep your legs apart maintaining more than hip-width distance between them. Bring your arms forwards and place your palms between your legs. With exhalation, bend forward slowly. Bend your legs slightly and slide your hands under your legs as you place your chin on the floor. Straighten your legs. Hold the pose for 20 to 30 seconds with normal breathing. Release the pose by raising your legs slightly to allow your hands to slide back to the front and inhale as you lift your upper body to position. Benefits Strengthens respiratory function Promotes blood circulation Boosts digestion
