Yoga Arthritis - Movements of the Hands

1. Anguli Shakti Vikasaka
2. Kara Tala Shakti Vikasaka

Meaning
Anguli Shakti Vikasaka (strengthening the fingers)
Kara Tala Shakti Vikasaka (strengthening the palms)

Benefits of moving the hands
1. Loosens the joints
2. Improves blood circulation to the joints
3. Helps release tension of joints when they are moved gently
4. Reduces stiffness and rigidity
5. Helps relieve pain in fingers and wrists. Strengthens them.

Precaution
As a beginner, try these practices for 30 seconds. After practising for a few days, you can extend the duration to 1 minute.

The Postures
A ) Anguli Shakti Vikasaka (Strengthening the Fingers)

1. Assume a comfortable sitting or standing position.
2. Stretch your hands in front keeping them parallel to the ground in line with the shoulders.
3. Shape the fingers of each palm like a cobra hood.
4. Stiffen the entire arm from fingertips to the shoulder sockets so tightly that it starts trembling.
5. Hold posture for 10 deep breaths and then relax.

This is one set. Repeat for 3-5 sets.

                                             Step1

                                           Step2

B ) Kara Tala Shakti Vikasaka (Strengthening the Palms)

1. Assume a comfortable sitting or standing position.
2. Bring your palms in Namaskar Mudra (palms joined in front of the chest keeping forearms parallel to the floor).
3. Separate the palms 8 to 10 inches from each other.
4. Stretch out all fingers and vigorously move each palm up and down at the wrist.
5. Move the palms 10 times without changing the position of elbows and forearms. Breathe normally.

This is one set. Repeat for 3-5 sets.

                                             Step1

                                               Step2

Contemplation
Take the following point into consideration during the practice of this asana -  
This posture is very beneficial for improving strength, flexibility and blood circulation of fingers and wrists. Pay close attention to the movement of your hands. Get an understanding of your fingers and their movements as they are more sensitive than other appendages of the body.

- Contributed by Divyayog  www.divyayog.in

Yoga practice is a physical activity; kindly consult your physician before you take it up. You are solely responsible for your health while performing the practice.