Any backward bend increases energy levels as the spine allows the energy to flow better when it is in an upright position. The posture of an individual easily shows whether he or she is happy or tired and an individual with a straight back is usually energetic and alert. Such people do not look as if they are carrying any burden in life. Practice these exercises to bring alertness and energy into your whole body.

Caution: Those with peptic ulcers or hyperthyroidism should avoid exercise one. Those with back and shoulder conditions should take care while doing exercises two and three. Those with heart conditions and high blood pressure should avoid exercise three.

Exercise 1

• Lie on the stomach, the legs straight, the feet together, the soles upward, the forehead on the floor

• Place the palms below and to the side of the shoulders, the elbows tucked in close to the body

• Inhale, slowly raise the head and upper body, straighten the arms and curve the back backward to a maximum as shown. Only the palms and toes should be in contact with the floor

• Hold, breathing normally

• Exhale as you slowly come down to the start position.

Exercise 2

Exercise 2

• Bend the right leg to bring the knee in front of the body and stretch the other behind

• Place the palms in front; place the front heel away from the groin

• Inhale slowly, cup your fingers and stretch your upper body backwards and look at the sky.

Exercise 3

Exercise 3

• Stand straight with the legs wide apart and the hands on the hips

• Turn one leg and the upper body to one side and bend the front knee

• Raise the arms straight up over the head, the palms together

• Lower the hips and bend backwards as much as comfortable.  Look up

• Hold for 10-30 seconds

• Repeat with the other leg