What Are The Benefits Of Inverted Poses
Inverted postures are vital yoga postures, particularly for rejuvenation. They are most recommended for women on account of the regenerating effect on the thyroid gland. Regular practice of Viparita Karani (The legs to wall pose), Sarvangasana (The Shoulder Stand), Halasana (The Plough Pose) and Sirshasana (The Head Stand) help to normalize a lot of health irregularities, including menstruation. It has been found that, in the case of displacement of fallopian tubes and the uterus, inverted poses especially Sirshasana (The Head Stand) help those organs return to their correct positions.
Then again, you are advised to avoid all inverted postures during menstruation. The backward flow could develop endometriosis; this is a growth of the uterine tissue. Also, pregnant women should avoid all inverted poses, especially after the first trimester. There are many other therapeutic benefits derived from doing inverted Yoga poses which, if practiced regularly except at the time of menstruation, you are bound to feel much more energetic, young and vigorous.
It has been found that the Shoulder Stand and other inverted postures relieve pressure on the abdominal organs, stimulate the brain, increase circulation and even enhance glandular system functioning.
Some Specific Benefits Of Inverted Postures
1. Viparita Karani (The Legs To Wall Pose):
In the legs to wall pose, you get an abundant supply of blood flow to the throat, neck and head. The pituitary and thyroid glands as well as the nervous centers in the brain are rejuvenated. The stimulation of the thyroid glands and sex glands produces increased vigor. It is said that this is also an age retarding Yoga posture.
2. Sarvangasana (The Shoulder Stand):
This pose is called the “Queen of all Yoga poses” and keeps the whole body healthy, particularly the thyroid and parathyroid glands. These glands regulate the functioning of a number of vital organs in the body. It also helps improve blood flow to all the sense organs: the neck, head and brain plus the facial skin. All physical congestions – especially constipation – are relieved in addition to free flow of hormones to the blood. It helps prevents premature aging and formation of wrinkles and in menstrual and uterine disorders. It also helps bring down levels of physical and mental fatigue and restores lost vitality after certain illnesses.
3. Halasana (The Plough Pose):
This is an extremely beneficial pose, particularly for menstrual problems, disorders of the uterus and ovaries. The Plough pose helps develop healthy thyroid and parathyroid functioning besides keeping the sex glands healthy. It is also extremely constructive and valuable for a good backbone and spinal column. Above all, it helps prevent formation of fat in the region of the hips, stomach and waist.
4. Sirshasana (The Head Stand Pose):
If the Shoulder stand is the Queen, the Head Stand is considered the King of all Yoga poses. It ensures rich supply of arterial blood to the head and brain thus regenerating the brain and the whole nervous system. This asana (pose) is particularly good for sensory work as it improves mental faculties such as memory and powers of concentration. The Head Stand has also extremely beneficial to the digestive system and endocrine glands and helps improve balance and alignment of spine and back. Above all, it also helps you retain a youthful look and youthful vigor, while infusing a sense of equilibrium and mental peace.
Remember that all the inverted poses must necessarily be followed by Shavasana (The Corpse pose).
