Headstand-Shirsasana

Headstand

  • Shirsasana
Dr.Rithika Patteti Supine Yoga Pose

Shirsasana (Headstand) is an advanced level asana. The Shirsasana, also known as the Headstand Pose, is referred to as the "king of all asanas" because it requires balance on the head or crown. Only a yoga trainer should be trusted to lead you through this advanced asana. As a result of its many health advantages, this pose is very well-liked. It quickens blood flow and makes sure the brain gets enough blood that is also well-oxygenated. Shirsasana gets its name from 'Shirsa' which means Head and 'Asana' means Pose. The Shirsasana activates all the seven Chakras.

Steps to do Headstand / Shirsasana

  • Sit in Vajrasana.
  • Drop your elbows on the mat and interlock the fingers.
  • Now bring down your crown of the head to the mat on the floor and back side of your head is touching your palms.
  • Straighten your legs and slowly walk closer to your head. Your back should be straight.
  • Now bend your knees, slowly raise your legs one by one and try to balance with folded legs.
  • Now slowly straighten your legs up, pointed to the ceiling.
  • Breathe normally while holding the pose. (make sure 80% of the weight is on the elbows not on the head).
  • Hold the position as long as you can.
  • Gently bend your knees and bring the heels near the buttocks and drop your legs down.
  • Come to child pose.

Tips for beginners

  • For stability, balancing poses should be performed close to a wall or other support. Again, a yoga instructor is the best form of security.
  • Keep a cushion or blanket nearby to provide comfortable head support.
  • Lift each of your legs off the ground one at a time . Likewise, descend with one leg at a time.
  • At first, hold the pose for just a few seconds. Then, gradually increase the duration of the pose while maintaining your comfort level.

Benefits

  • It awakens Sahasrara chakra.
  • Stimulates pituitary and pineal glands. Enhances memory power. 
  • Calms the mind and helps relieve stress.
  • Helps to rectify many forms of nervous and glandular disorders.
  • Strengthens arms, spine and lungs. Helps relieve the symptoms of menopause.
  • Therapeutic for asthma, infertility, insomnia, migraine, thyroid, varicose veins, piles, diabetes and sinusitis.

Watch out for

  • A person with back injury, neck injury, headache or migraine, heart condition, low BP, high BP shouldn’t practice Sirshasana.
  • Avoid practicing during menstruation, pregnancy, eye problems, impure blood and inflammation in the ears.

Variations