Yoga Chikitsa · Primary · Finishing Sequence
Salamba Sarvangasana
Shoulderstand
What it is
Salamba Sarvangasana, supported shoulderstand, is the first pose of the Ashtanga finishing sequence, practised after the main series.
What it looks like
Lying on the back, you lift the legs and hips overhead and support the back with the hands, so the body rises vertically from the shoulders. The legs reach toward the ceiling. It is often held for longer than other poses — traditionally ten breaths or more.
Why it is practised
It is a calm inverted pose that begins the slower, quieter part of practice. Many people find the inverted poses a calm transition after the more effortful part of practice.
What to pay attention to
The weight should rest on the shoulders and upper arms, not on the neck. Never turn the head while in the pose. A folded blanket under the shoulders can help.
Who it suits
Most practitioners, with guidance at first. Some people, for example with neck problems, should use an alternative.
Next in the sequence: Halasana.
An inverted pose on the shoulders, legs toward the ceiling. The hands support the back.
It belongs to the closing of Primary, with related shapes around it. Exit slowly. The neck stays quiet.
Practise this Primary pose in a Mysore-style room, or in a private session in Dubai or online.
See session formats, upcoming dates and the shala, or book a place with Ashtanga Yoga Dubai.