Shilpa Shetty Kundra Shares Yoga Practice for Balance, Demonstrates Ashwa Sanchalanasana

Indian actress Shilpa Shetty Kundra recently showcased her yoga practice, focusing on improving balance. She demonstrated Ashwa Sanchalanasana, also known as the High Lunge Pose. This particular asana helps enhance focus, concentration, and coordination between the mind and body, while also improving flexibility in the back and hamstrings. Shilpa advised individuals with slip-disc, knee issues, or pregnant women to avoid this pose.

Ashwa Sanchalanasana combines strength, balance, and flexibility. It is often incorporated into yoga sequences to promote stability, focus, and a sense of grounding. In this dynamic pose, proper alignment and mindfulness are key.

To perform Ashwa Sanchalanasana, start with Tadasana (Mountain Pose) as the foundation. Stand tall, engage your thigh muscles, lift your chest, and lengthen your spine. Transition into a lunge position by stepping one foot back, ensuring your front knee is bent at a 90-degree angle, directly over the ankle. Keep the back leg straight and strong, with the toes pointing straight or slightly outward for stability. Engage your core muscles, lift your torso, and reach your arms overhead for a lengthening sensation from the fingertips to the back heel.

Aside from strengthening the legs, particularly the quadriceps and hamstrings, and toning the glutes, Ashwa Sanchalanasana engages the core muscles, contributing to abdominal strength and stability. It also opens up the hips, alleviating tension in the lower back and promoting better posture. From a mental perspective, this pose encourages focus, balance, and a sense of calm.

Modifications can be made to accommodate different abilities and needs. For individuals with knee concerns, additional support can be provided by using a blanket or mat under the knee of the back leg. Yoga blocks can also be used to modify arm positions or bring the floor closer. Increasing hamstring flexibility and improving leg strength, Salamba Utthita Eka Padasana, a variation of Ashwa Sanchalanasana, places emphasis on extending one leg.

It is important to practice these poses with awareness and respect for individual limitations. Consulting with a certified yoga instructor or healthcare professional is recommended, especially for beginners or those with specific conditions.