YOGASANA

Shoulderstand: An inverted pose, with your body resting on your shoulders.

Sarvangasana, the Sanskrit name for the Shoulderstand, comes from the word “sarvanga”, meaning all parts. This asana 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.