Camel pose or ustrasana

Especialy good to treat respiratory ailments,  mild backaches, fatigue and anxiety, the camel pose is perfect to relieve menstrual discomfort. Just like the bow pose this aasana also stretches the front of the body, ankles, thighs, groin, abdomen and chest.

It stimulates the abdominal organs, increasing the blood flow to the uterus helping it heal faster. It also relieves back ache and helps your body relax.

Steps to do this pose: 

• Kneel on your yoga mat and press your shin onto the floor, such that it is flat against the mat.
• Now place your hands on either sides of your pelvis, with your fingers pointing downwards.
• Make sure your palms are resting on the top of your hip bone. This will help support your back when you bend backwards.
• Next, push your tail bone downwards and forwards while keeping your upper body upright. Inhale and tilt your head back, with your chin pointing to the sky.
• Gently lean back forming a inward arch in your back.
• Now place your palms on the soles of your feet for added support.
• You should feel a stretch right from your chin down to your belly or groin. Hold this pose for fifteen to twenty seconds, exhale and come back to your original position.

Tip: Do not do this pose if you have neck of back pain, high blood pressure or suffer from migraines.