Salamba Sarvangasana

The name Salamba Sarvangasana comes from the Sanskrit words ‘salamba’ meaning supported, ‘Sarva’ meaning all and ‘anga’ meaning limb or bodypart, and ‘asana’ meaning posture. Thus salamba sarvangasana literally translates to supported-all-limbs-pose.

Instructions: Start by lying flat on your back, keeping your legs together and your arms by your side. With one swift but easy movement, lift your legs, buttocks, and back, such that your elbows support your lower body and you stand high on your shoulders. Use your hands to support your back. As you settle down in the pose, make sure you move your elbows closer to each other. Straighten your spine and legs. Your body weight should lie on your shoulders and upper arms. Do not support your body on your neck or head. Firm up your legs and point your toes out. Hold the posture for about 30 to 60 seconds. Breathe deeply while you do so. If you feel any strain on your neck, release immediately.To release, lower your knees, and bring your hands to the floor. Then, lie flat and relax.

Benefits:

• It helps calm the brain, cures mild depression and relieves stress.
• It stimulates the prostate and the thyroid glands and the abdominal organs.
• It increases the blood flow to the internal organs and is very good for the digestive and the respiratory system. It cures digestive ailments and respiratory ailments like asthma and bronchitis.
• This asana relieves the symptoms of menopause.
• It provides relief from chronic fatigue and insomnia.
• It improves reproductive functions and improves fertility.

Caution:

• This asana should be avoided by people suffering from high blood pressure and shoulder and neck injuries.