The reason why many of us find shoulderstand (Sarvangasana) uncomfortable is because lots of the weight of our body usually ends up resting on the head and neck. However, the regular practice of this inversion in a safe way can help prevent coughs, colds, boost immune system, alleviate insomnia and improve and maintain overall health and wellbeing.
In this workshop we will focus mainly on the arms, chest and shoulder girdle so the head and neck remain safe, face and throat relaxed. By taking our shoulders through a full range of motion through some free flow movement and the sequence using the props and longer holds we will expand the chest to free up the shoulder girdle. This will create the sense of space and freedom in your shoulders and armpits needed so we can safely stand on top of the shoulders and arms rather than the back of the neck. The sequence will help to ground your arms firmly while keeping the chest open so the weight of your body in an upright position is able to rest on your hands and forearms rather than the neck or the head.
Whether your final goal is to be upright in a shoulderstand or simply experience a gentle variation of this inversion the above sequence will help you create more mobility in the shoulder joints, develop strength in the arms whilst creating the space in the chest. This in turn will boost your respiratory health and make you feel more relaxed and calm despite the fact you were working hard.
In case of menstruation, neck injury, glaucoma or high blood pressure modification for the shoulderstand will be given.
