Halasana is a classic yoga pose included in many yogic practices. It stretches your spine as well as tones and stretches your back muscles too. Looking at pictures of the pose you would be able to guess that it would work that area especially. Halasana helps in stretching the neck and stimulates the thyroid glands. It can stimulate digestion too.

This pose also helps in strengthening abdominal muscles and back muscles along with relaxing the autonomous nervous systems. Halasana further improves digestion and is known for producing supple glowing skin.

Some say that turning your body upside down can stimulate thinking in new ways. That is anecdotal. Turning things upside down when you are painting does help the painter to see the picture in terms of shapes. I was taught this technique when I studied painting at the Gage Academy. Looking at things upside down can help to see in a new way.

When I do this pose I concentrate on my breath, as is the case with all yoga asanas. But I am extra aware due to being upside down with my heart above my head for a change. I do find it relaxing and a challenge. For myself, I do Halasana to benefit my back. The long stretch helps keep it supple.

However, this pose should not be performed by people with hyperthyroidism as it facilitates the secretion of thyroid hormones.

So how do you do Halasana or Plow Pose?

Sit at the front end of your mat and lay back over the blankets so they support your torso. Adjust your position so that the tops of your shoulders are about an inch over the edge and the back of your head rests on the floor. Lie face up so that the front of your neck is long and there’s space between the back of your neck and the floor.
Bring your knees toward your chest, then straighten your legs toward the ceiling.
Using the strength of your abs — and supporting yourself with both hands at your low or mid-back — lift your hips off the floor and roll up until you are supported by your shoulders. Stack your hips above your shoulders.
Lower your legs slowly backward over your head until your toes reach the ground behind you. Rest your toes on the ground. I sometimes flex my feet or keep them straight.
Release your hands and place your arms on the floor, palms down or with hands clasped. Press down with your outer upper arms and shoulders to create more lift along the spine. Often for beginners keeping your hands on your lower back can help to keep you in this pose with comfort.
Hold for 5 breaths or more. I often go longer than this, but start small.
To end the pose, unclasp your hands, press your arms and hands into the mat, and slowly roll down one vertebra at a time.
Take a few moments to allow the back to settle back into its normal curves.

Enjoy!!
Thank you for reading and I hope this keeps you curious about yoga and its health benefits.