We will continue our discussion of the headstand (शीर्षासन) and work on two variations in which we use the hands instead of the forearms for support. This pose puts a little extra pressure on the head and the arms as compared to the traditional pose described earlier.

Preparation for the asana

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In a previous article, we talked about one of the commonly practiced inverted poses called Sarvangasana (shoulder stand). In today’s article, I am going to discuss another very important inverted pose – Shirshasana – (शीर्षासन) -(headstand). In many yoga texts, shirshasana has been described as "the king of asanas", perhaps due to the many benefits that it provides.

Preparation for the asana

• It is highly advisable that the shirshasana be learned under the guidance of an experienced teacher.
• Beginners should use a wall for support in the early stages. This will help them develop the necessary strength in the neck, shoulders and the head as well as help them develop self-confidence so they can eventually practice it without any support.

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In this article, we will be discussing one of the inverted poses, called Sarvangasana - सर्वाङ्गासन - (commonly translated as the Shoulder Stand or the Supported Shoulder Stand pose). In some yoga texts, this pose is called the "queen of the asanas" (the headstand or the shirShasana is generally referred to as the king of the asanas). The word "sarvangasana" can be broken into two words "sarvanga" and "asana". The word "sarvanga" is a compound word consisting of "sarva" meaning "all" and "anga" meaning "limbs". The word sarvanga implies that this pose when practiced regularly can bring benefits to your entire body. This beneficial effect is mainly achieved by harmonizing the endocrine system, in particular the thyroid and parathyroid glands.

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