Pawanmuktasana is made up of three Sanskrit words. The first is "Pawan", which means wind, the second is "Mukta,” which means to release; and the third is "Asana,” which means posture. Therefore, this asana is named after the work it does. It helps to remove excess air from the body, which improves the digestion process. Pawanmuktasana is also known as the wind relieving pose, wind liberating pose, or wind removing pose.

Benefits of Pawanmuktasana

• This asana strengthens the muscles of the lower back and provides flexibility to the spine.
• Pawanmuktasana is effective in relieving abdominal gas and constipation.
• Pawanmuktasana nourishes the pelvic muscles and reproductive organs, due to which it is beneficial for problems like impotence, infertility, and pain during menstruation.
• It works to stretch and tone the back, which relieves the problem of back pain.
• Its regular practice improves the functioning of the lungs.
• It strengthens the digestive system and improves its functioning.
• This asana plays an important role in reducing belly fat.
• This yoga practice improves blood circulation in the body due to which the flow of blood to all parts of the body is smooth.

How to do Pawanmuktasana

• Lay a mat on a flat surface and lie on your back.
• Now while breathing slowly, bend both your legs from the knees and bring the thighs towards the chest.
• Hold the fingers of both your hands together just below the knees.
• After that, take a deep breath.
• While exhaling, raise your head and shoulders upwards and try to bring your nose between the knees.
• Stay in this position for some time and breathe normally.
• Straighten the head, shoulders, and legs and come back to your original position.
• Do this process at least 3 times.

Take these precautions while doing Pawanmuktasana

• Do not do it if you have a high blood pressure problem.
• Do not do Pawanmuktasana if there is injury or extreme pain in the lower back.
• People suffering from sciatica and slipped discs should not practice it.