The Headstand is called the King of Asanas. It is a cure for almost all physical maladies. The names Shirshasana has been derived from the Sanskrit word Shirsha meaning “head” and Asana meaning “posture”.
How to Perform:
- On a mat, sit on the two knees.
- Interlock the fingers and place the finger-lock on the ground up till the elbow.
- Now, keep the top of your head on this finger-lock or between the two hands.
- Slowly raise the legs till they become vertical.
- Retain this pose for five seconds in the beginning. Increase the time duration gradually to 15-30 minutes.
- After holding the pose, slowly bring the legs down and relax your body.
Benefits:
- Illumines the physic faculties and awakens the Kundalini Shakti.
- Improves mental power.
- Purifies blood and works a wonderful nerve tonic.
- It improves vision, concentration, and memory.
- Cures diseases of the eyes, nose, head, throat stomach, genito-urinary system, liver, spleen, lungs, renal colic, deafness, gonorrhea, diabetes, piles, asthma consumption, syphilis, etc.
- Stimulates the digestive fire also known as Jatharagni.
- Slows down the aging process.
- Eases out uterine and ovarine troubles and removes sterility.
Contraindications:
- Practitioners suffering from abnormal blood pressure, glaucoma, detached retina, chronic thyroid disorders, neck or shoulder injuries, must consult a trained yoga expert before performing the shoulder stand.
Some Tips for performing Shirshasana:
- Shirshasana must be practiced under the supervision of trained teacher only.
- While performing this asana, avoid jerky and hasty movements.
- Ask someone to assist you in performing this pose or take the support of a wall initially.
- Breath through the nose and not through the mouth.
- It is important to practice this asana for 2-3 months at a stretch to master it