SARVĀṄGĀSANA
Shoulderstand: An inverted pose, with your body resting on your shoulders.
Sarvāṅgāsana, the Sanskrit name for the Shoulderstand, comes from the word “sarvāṅga”, meaning all parts. This āsana strengthens the entire body; it gives many of the benefits of the Headstand, but here the circulation is directed to the thyroid gland instead of the head. The thyroid is an important gland of the endocrine system and this exercise gives it a rich supply of blood, improving and balancing the metabolism of literally every cell in the body. Other benefits of this posture includes stimulating cheerfulness, promoting clear thinking, and helping to cure depression.
Objective: To stretch your cervical and thoracic regions.
Contraindications
It is best not to practice Shoulderstand if you:
• Have neck problems.
• Have high blood pressure, do not hold the pose for more than 30 seconds.
• Are menstruating, consider holding this posture for 15-30 seconds or skip it altogether.
Step 1 – Legs Up
Before beginning the Shoulderstand, make sure that there is enough room behind you. You must be able to stretch your arms out behind your head and have at least a foot between your fingertips and any obstructions. Lie flat on your back, with your feet together. Inhale while bringing your legs up to a right angle.
Step 2 – Body Up
Tuck your hands under your buttocks, with your fingers pointing toward your spine. Then, as you exhale, gently raise your body by letting your hands walk down your back and push you into position.
Step 3 – In Balance
Continue to move your hands up your back until you rest on your shoulders. Breathe normally, and keep your legs straight. Hold for 30 seconds; as the pose becomes easier, increase the time to 3 minutes. To come down, drop your feet halfway to the floor behind your head. Put your hands on the floor. Unroll your body vertebra by vertebra to the floor. Hand position: Put your hands on the small of your back, with your fingers toward your spine.
Variation
Inhale with your hands on your back. Exhale and bring one foot to the floor behind your head. Inhale. Raise your leg. Swap sides.
For Further Reading
• The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga
• Sivananda Companion Book of Yoga
