"Shoulderstand (Sarvangasana) is one of the core poses of yoga. Not only does it provide the unique and important psychological benefits of inversion, but with its variations it can also provide a mini-asana session for the busy student."
"The translation of the Sanskrit name "Sarvangasana" is "sarva" meaning "all" and "anga" meaning "limb." Thus, Sarvangasana is an asana that benefits the whole body, especially through the metabolism. It is interesting to note that science agrees with the ancient yogis."
"Recent scientific studies have proved that turning the body upside down augments the flow of venous blood from the lower extremities to the heart and increases the blood to the thyroid gland, located just above the breastbone (sternum)."
"Unlike arteries, veins do not have a muscular lining and therefore cannot control their diameter by contraction and relaxation. This fact, in combination with the pull of gravity, tends to allow blood to pool in the legs. Without muscular activity, blood does not return to the heart, and blood pressure drops. Oxygen to the brain is therefore lessened, and one can feel dizzy or lightheaded, sometimes enough to faint."
Shoulderstand (Sarvangasana) is a core yoga pose that provides psychological benefits of inversion and can function as a mini practice for busy students. Sarvangasana translates to “all limb,” indicating whole-body benefit, especially through metabolism. Scientific findings align with traditional claims by showing that turning the body upside down increases venous blood flow from the lower extremities to the heart and raises blood flow to the thyroid gland above the sternum. Inversions also counter venous pooling in the legs, since veins lack muscular control over diameter and gravity promotes pooling. By supporting circulation, shoulderstand can reduce dizziness and lightheadedness, relieve end-of-day fatigue, and help runners prevent leg soreness by draining muscle waste products. Variations include Halasana, Setu Bandha Sarvangasana, Parsva Urdhva Padmasana, and Parsva Urdhva Padmasana.
Read at Yoga Journal
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