Sarvangasana (Shoulder stand pose)

In sanskirt, "sarva" means whole and "anga" means limb. Almost all parts of the body are involved in and benefit from this asana. Lie flat on your back with your arms by the side, palms turned down. Bring your legs up slowly to a 90 angle and then rainse the rest of the body by pushing the legs up and resting their weight on the arms. Fix your chin in the jugular notch, and use your arms and hands to support the body at the hip region.The weight of the body should rest on your head, back and shoulders, your arms being used merely for balance. The trunk and legs should in a straight line. The body, legs, hips and trunk should be kept as verticle as possible. Focus your eyes on your big toes. Press your chin against your chest. Hold the pose for one to three minutes. Return to the starting position slowly reversing the procedure.


Sarvangasana stimulates the thyroid and para-thyroid glands, influences the brain and strengthens the mind.