Thus, Paścimatānāsana, the foremost of āsanas, makes the prāṇa flow toward the west. It kindles the gastric fire, reduces the abdomen, and bestows health upon practitioners.

This verse enumerates the benefits of Paścimatānāsana:

Āsanāgryam — “the foremost of āsanas” — indicates its supreme importance among non-meditative āsanas. Some commentators interpret this as “the best of the stretching postures.”

Paścima-vāhinam — “flowing toward the west” — means that prāṇa is directed toward the back, specifically toward Suṣumnā. This flow is opposite to the habitual pattern where energy disperses forward and outward.

Jaṭharānala udayam — “kindles the gastric fire.” The compression of the abdomen stimulates the digestive agni, improving the metabolism of food and toxins.

Udare kārśyam — “reduces the abdomen.” A slimming effect, especially in the belly.

Arogatām — “health.” A general benefit for the entire system.

This combination of energetic and physical effects makes Paścimatānāsana a complete practice in itself. Many traditions consider it indispensable.