Supported Shoulder Stand - Salamba Sarvangasana

About Supported Shoulder Stand

Are you ready to add a challenging yet fun pose to your yoga routine? It’s time to give the supported shoulder stand a shot! It requires perfecting your sense of balance and tuning into your body movements. The supported shoulder stand works on building power and strength in your back, neck and shoulders and is a great stress reliever after a hectic day. The supported shoulder stand may take some time to master but this pose is well worth the effort. As a beginner, you can initially practice this pose against a wall for added support. It would be a good idea to perform the Halasana and Virasana as preparatory poses before you attempt the supported shoulder stand.

Step By Step Instructions

With the preparatory poses out of the way, you are now ready to perform the supported shoulder stand sequence!

1. Spread out your yoga mat and lie down on your back. Keep your shoulders on the mat but your head should be off the mat. Your arms should be extended straight out behind you.
2. Raise your hips off the mat and swing your legs up and over your head.
3. Now deepen the bend by raising your back off the mat and shifting your legs further away from your head.
4. Slowly straighten your back and shift your arms towards the back.
5. Support your upper back with your hands. You should aim to place your hands as close to your shoulder blades as possible. Use your hands to push your back in a straighter position.
6. Then start to raise your legs upwards one at a time, until they are standing straight. Make sure that your body is well balanced and your back or shoulders are not being excessively strained.
7. Maintain this pose for at least 30 seconds to 1 minute.
8. To exit the pose lower each leg back onto the mat, and then slowly lower your back onto the mat.

Health Benefits

Let’s take a look at the wonderful health benefits of the supported shoulder stand!

1. It is a great stress reliever and can alleviate mild depression.
2. Helps the mind and body to relax and unwind.
3. Acts as a stimulant for the thyroid gland, prostate gland and abdominal organs.
4. Enhances the digestive functioning of the body.
5. Alleviates menopausal symptoms, fatigue and insomnia.
6. Can be used as a therapy for infertility, asthma and sinusitis.
7. Stretches and strengthens the neck, shoulders and legs.
8. A great way to tone the buttocks and legs.

Things To Remember!

Individuals with diarrhea, headache, neck or back injuries and high blood pressure should refrain from performing the supported shoulder stand pose. Women on their menstrual cycle should avoid this asana. As a beginner, you should not perform the supported shoulder stand pose without the supervision of a qualified yoga teacher.