The name comes from the Sanskrit words Sirsa meaning
“head” and Asana meaning “posture”. Sirsasana, the headstand, is traditionally
known as the king of all asanas. It is one of the most important asanas in yoga as it revitalizes the entire body and stimulates the mind.
Inversions are very beneficial postures, yet for many
they are extremely intimidating. Sirsasana has profound physical and
psychological effects. It can be practiced safely and without fear, but needs
thorough explanation and exploration that’s why I offer to my students and yoga
practitioner’s workshops to practice and teach inversions.
When
we are born, the head comes out first, and then the limbs. The skull encases
the brain, and the brain controls the nervous system and the sense organs. The
brain is what holds intelligence, knowledge, wisdom, discrimination, power. Our
body cannot function properly without a healthy brain. Headstand ensures a
proper blood supply and stimulates the pituitary and pineal glands in the
brain. Our growth, health and vitality depend on the proper functioning of
these two glands that control the chemical balance of the body. Regular
practice of Sirsasana makes healthy pure blood flow through the brain cells.
This rejuvenates them so that thinking power increases and thoughts become
clearer
Headstand stimulates the nervous system, increasing mental alertness and
clarity. It is a centering, calming and soothing pose. People suffering from
insomnia, lack of memory and vitality get benefited by the practice of this
asana. Headstand strengthens the spine, neck, shoulders and arms. The muscular
system of the abdomen and legs are toned. Inversions place the legs over the heart, so it
helps to move stored fluids into the core for reoxygenation, filtration and
elimination of waste material. Blood and lymph fluid is relieved from the legs and ankles and with
regular practice prevents the retention of fluid in the legs and feet,
alleviates from varicose veins and circulatory problems. Together with
Sarvangasana, the shoulder standing, helps the digestive system and alleviates
constipation. The lung tissue is stimulated. By reversing the pull of gravity
on the organs, especially the intestines, it helps to cleanse them and overcome
problems of the liver, kidneys, stomach, intestines and reproductive system.
Headstand increases gastric fire and produces heat in the body. Headstand helps
the spine become properly aligned, improving posture, facilitating good
breathing and reducing muscular stress. The weight of the abdominal organs on
the diaphragm encourages deep breathing, which gently massages the internal
organs.
Headstand provides an opportunity for experimenting safely with the
unfamiliar and helps to overcome fear. Headstand can be scary; it literally
turns your world upside down.
When practicing Sirsasana, it is important to practice the correct
alignment, so as to avoid any neck or shoulder injuries while in the process. This asana should be learned under the guidance
of a qualified instructor. One will need guidance and help from an experienced
yoga teacher in the initial stages, to achieve the balance required to keep the
body inverted and vertical without unnecessary risks . In any case, Sirsasana should be learned slowly so that one doesn’t injure oneself by falling
off, while practicing. Once you have proper alignment and balance, try to
maintain the position for longer to get maximum benefit.
People suffering from high blood pressure, detached retina, glaucoma,
hernias, cardiovascular disease, cervical spondylitis, thrombosis,
arteriosclerosis, and kidney problems should not practice headstand. Those
suffering from neck injuries should seek advice from a professional before
practice this asana. Women during menstruation should avoid holding inversions.
Pregnant women should take
special care and consult a physician before attempting this pose. Always
consult a doctor or a qualified yoga instructor before taking up the practice
of Sirsasana and Sarvangasana, the Queen of asanas together create
the kingdom that brings vitality to the body and calmness to the mind.
Best wishes of Joy and Peace.
Om Sahnti
Amalia Shakti
