Makarasana is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Makara', which literally means crocodile. In this asana, the person poses like a crocodile. That's why this asana is called Crocodile Pose. Performing this yoga practice in the right way provides many physical and mental benefits. Continuously practicing it brings flexibility in the muscles of the back and spine, due to which the problem of back pain is relieved.

Apart from this, regular practice of Makarasana also provides spiritual benefits. Let us shed light on the method and benefits of doing Makarasana through this article.

Method of doing Makarasana

• First of all, choose an open area that is clean and serene.
• Lie down on your stomach on a carpet or mat.
• Now spread your legs straight and keep your body straight.
• Now keep both your elbows on the ground.
• Raise your head and shoulders. Keep in mind that during this, both elbows should remain on the ground.
• Now stand with your palms in the shape of a cup and place your chin on it.
• Now take a long breath and release it.
• If there is more pressure on the waist in this process, then slightly spread both your elbows.
• Now slowly move both your legs from bottom to top and then from top to bottom.
• In this way, one cycle of Makarasana is completed.
• Do this process about 10 times or as per your capacity.

Benefits of doing Makarasana

• This asana stretches the muscles of the back, neck, and shoulders, which relieves the stiffness in the back and provides relief from several problems related to the back.
• This asana effectively relieves body pain.
• Makarasana is very beneficial for the spinal cord. Regularly practicing it makes the spinal cord flexible.
• Makarasana is extremely beneficial in the treatment of heart diseases.
• This asana provides peace to the mind by reducing anxiety, tension, and headaches.
• This asana is very beneficial for asthma patients.
• Makarasana is very beneficial for keeping the digestive system healthy because its practice puts a strain on the abdominal muscles due to which all the abdominal organs are nourished. Thus, it helps in improving digestion by stimulating the abdominal organs.

Take these precautions while doing Makarasana

• Do not practice Makarasana repeatedly as it puts a strain on the muscles.
• Do not practice this asana if there is any kind of injury or acute pain in the waist, back, or neck.
• Avoid doing Makarasana in the case of injury to any part of the body.
• People with high blood pressure should avoid this practice.