CHENNAI: There are a few different ways of going into Sarvangasan. I have mentioned that those suffering from hypertension should first do Halasan and then come into Sarvangasan so we’ll continue looking at the pose the same way. If it’s good for those with hypertension it’s safe and good for all.
STEPS: From Halasan move your legs back towards the torso and then move the feet directly above the chest, place your palms on your middle back by folding the elbows. Now the elbows and hands are propping up the torso. Use your hands to push the torso towards the chin for a firm chin-lock. The shoulders, hips joint, knees and ankles will form one straight line and be pushed towards the chin as a single vertical line up.
Hold for 1-5 minutes or as comfortable while breathing normally. To come out of the pose bring your feet behind your head again in Halasan and then release your hands from the back. Place them palms flat on the floor. Using your hands like breaks lower your back on the floor by moving your legs to the vertical position and then lower your legs to the supine resting pose. Relax. (Counter pose for Sarvangasan is Matsyasan).
BENEFITS
This is an inversion with a chin lock in place so it benefits the thyroid and the parathyroid glands. It is good for all internal organs starting from the heart to the digestive system. It is the mother of all asans and gives us vigor and vitality. Diseases of the respiratory, digestive and urinary system are cured by this pose. Also Anemia, Headache and Insomnia are said to be relieved by Sarvangasan.
(Anshu Vyas Seetharaman is a yoga and fitness trainer at Sri Aurobindo Society, Bengaluru)