The Sanskrit word anga means limb or body. Therefore sarvanga either translates as "all-limbs" or "full-body posture". It is so named since its benefit cover the whole body.
It is usually called the "Shoulder Stand" as you essentially stand on your shoulders. Benefits of Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) - The most important benefit of Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) is that the thyroid gland gets working at peak efficiency. The thyroid gland is mostly responsible for right weight and youthful looks.
- Sarvangasana also regulates the pituitary and sex glands.
- The Shoulder Stand stimulates the nerves, purifies the blood and promotes good circulation. Further, it strengthens the lower organs and helps them to remain firmly in place.
- Sarvangasana gives a healthy stretch to all the muscles of the neck.
- The Shoulder Stand is especially beneficial to people suffering from poor constipation, indigestion, blood circulation, asthma and low virility.
- Sarvangasana is particularly advocated for post-natal mothers and for those women suffering from painful menstruation, other women’s disorders, and seminal weakness.
Many consider the Shoulder Stand the most important Yoga posture. In fact, if you find your time limited in the course of Yoga class or at home, you are recommended to lay more stress on Sarvangasana.
When done in the mornings the Shoulder Stand is known to ease fatigue caused by too much or too little sleep. When performed in the evenings Sarvangasana helps promote deep, restful sleep. The Shoulder Stand also strengthens your back and helps alleviate lower backaches. The improved blood flow to the head and upper body, through the practise of the Shoulder Stand, helps heal a number of disorders including headaches, nasal congestion and sore throats. The body’s whole endocrine, digestive, nervous, and venous systems get invigorated in ways that no other type of diet or tradition exercise can do. Since the body is upturned a rich supply of oxygenated blood flows to the organs and glands in the upper body – the brain, thyroid and pituitary, and heart – thus revitalizing them. Pressure gets relieved from the lower body, thereby relieving aches and/or swelling of legs and feet. The Shoulder Stand also does great to abdominal organs helping the practitioner stimulate digestion and relieve gas /constipation. Regular practice of Sarvangasana stimulates your mind and helps to calm your entire nervous system.
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