Scorpion Pose yoga : Do It Under The Supervision of Experienced Yoga Instructor

By Patricia | April 21, 2009
Scorpion Pose Yoga Instructions

How to do scorpion yoga poses?

The Scorpion Pose (Vrschikasana) is so called because when done correctly your body will resemble a scorpion, tail arched above the head ready to sting. In Sanskrit, Vrischika means scorpion. Even though it is a rather difficult pose for beginners, the Scorpion pose is not really as tough as it looks. Make sure that you don’t get ahead of yourself however. You should not attempt it till you are comfortable with the other balancing poses, such as Vrikshasana (Tree Pose), Ekpadasana (One Legged Pose), as well as Sirshasana (the Headstand). When attempting this pose you should only do it under the supervision of an experienced Yoga instructor.

Instructions:

  1. Start the pose in Balasana (Child’s Pose). Next, fold your arms and place them in front of your head, around shoulder-width apart.
  2. In the beginning it is better to do this pose against a wall. Position yourself in such a way that your head is around 2 – 3 feet away from the wall; so, you can use the wall for support, in case you lose your balance.
  3. Next rise up into Sirshasana (The Headstand) then lift your head from off the floor and raise it as high as you can.
  4. With a deep inhalation swing your legs up, above and behind your head carefully maintaining your balance. Take your legs all the way behind your head, flat feet pointing to the wall.
  5. Now, bend your knees and, slowly, drop your feet towards your head. Take care not to do this too fast or drop your legs too far. Always maintain your balance.
  6. This pose will call for some strength, so don't hold it for too long, not more than 15 – 30 seconds. Gradually, increase the length of time, as you gain more confidence with the pose.
  7. To come out of the pose gracefully take your legs back to an upright position, vertical to the floor, without falling out of the pose, and drop your head, gently to your mat, back into Sirshasana (The Headstand).
  8. Slowly come down, knees folded and relax in Balasana (Child’s Pose) for half a minute or so.

Benefits

  1. Scorpion pose provides a maximum stretch to the spine, neck and chest. It combines most of the benefits of the Sirshasana (the Headstand) and Chakrasana (Wheel Pose).

Contraindications

  1. People suffering from detached retina, glaucoma, or any other eye conditions should avoid the pose as the pressure it creates will only aggravate the condition.
  2. Those suffering from High Blood Pressure or Heart Palpitations had also best avoid this pose.
  3. Also avoid the pose in case you are suffering from vertigo.

Caution:

  1. Attempt the Scorpion pose only when you are able to do Sirshasana (The Headstand) without any difficulty. Beginners shouldn’t event attempt this pose.
  2. Always make sure to check with your doctor if it is okay for you to do this pose.
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