Turn over, face downward, with the body well extended, bearing the
weight upon the toes and the elbows, with the upper arm vertical,
lift the hips and torso till the body is extended in a straight
line.
Be sure that the upper arms are vertical and the fore-arms parallel with
each other. Try to keep the body as straight as possible and get the
sense of extension.
This may seem to be a severe exercise, but it is not dangerous. In fact,
more than any other exercise it tends to correct abnormal conditions in
the central portions of the body. It allows the vital organs to be
suspended from another angle, rests them, and tends to restore all to
normal conditions.
This exercise should be performed in quadruple rhythm, steadily, and
slowly. Attention should be given to the complete rest at the climax.
Practice it a few times at first until the strength is sufficient to
repeat it many times.
It is an unusually important exercise in case of any constrictions. It
strengthens also certain muscles of the torso which are apt to be
neglected.
This making a bridge of the body, supporting it by the upper arms which
should be vertical, and the feet which should also be vertical, has a
great effect upon all the internal organs of the torso. It affects any
sort of displacement and any kind of congestion. The exercises may be
practiced slowly, rising and then staying the activity for a little
while, and then allowing the body slowly to descend.
Take a good rest as the exercise is rather vigorous for some persons,
especially those who have any weakness through the torso. Those whom the
exercise taxes are they who especially need it. It should be repeated
several times.