how to do sarvangasana Archives - Pragya Bhatt

Asana Yoga

The Sarvangasana Cycle

March 24, 2020

It is one of the greatest boons conferred on humanity by our ancient sages. (Light on Yoga p 212)

What is the Sarvangasana Cycle?

Sarvangasana is the Shoulder Stand yoga pose. I’ve written about the etymological structure and why it’s called the ‘Mother of All Asanas’ in this blog. It’s an important posture in the Iyengar style of yoga, practiced every day except during the menstrual cycle. Iyengar yoga practitioners practice the sirsasana – sarvangasana – halasana sequence every day. The Sarvangasana Cycle can be practiced once you’re reasonably comfortable with the alignment of the Sarvangasana.

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Asana Yoga

Sarvangasana – The Mother of Asanas

March 19, 2020

Sarvanga (Sarva=all, whole, entire, complete; anga=limb or body) means the entire body or all the limbs. In this pose the whole body benefits from the exercise, hence the name. (Light on Yoga, p 206)

What is Sarvangasana?

Sarvangasana is a yoga pose that is categorised as an inversion because in this pose the body is upside down and supported by the shoulders. It is an integral pose in all styles and lineages of yoga. In the Iyengar style of yoga we emphasise the importance of correct alignment and balance in the pose, often using props such as bolsters, blankets and belts to achieve the correct alignment.

In many old yoga books you will find this posture also called the Candlestick posture because the body is supposed to resemble a straight candle on a candle holder.

Why is it Called the Mother of Asanas?

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