Supported Shoulder Stand (Ardha Sarvangasana)

Half shoulder stand brings energy through the pelvis and up and out the legs. When mulabandha is engaged, it gives a reversed life to the pelvic floor that is complimentary to the inversion of the internal organs and the reversed flow of blood in the legs. It also massages the thyroid gland.

This asana is performed in a restorative manner – legs up the wall, back on the floor. This pose provides an inversion for the lower body and is an excellent way to end a restorative practice. The only prop necessary is the wall. A folded blanket placed under the torso provides additional elevation.

Anatomical focus: Pelvis and legs

Therapeutic application: Energizing and calming (personal experience)

Affected muscles: Pelvis, Quadriceps (personal experience)

Benefits:

• A wonderful stretch for the quads
• Helps relieve mild depression, anxiety, and fatigue (personal experience)

Personal Observations: well needed stretching and creates a sense of calm

Baxter, Christopher Ken. Kripalu Hatha Yoga. Lenox: Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health.
Inner Idea. Restorative Yoga Teacher Training.18 August 2010.
< http://www.inneridea.com/library/restorative-yoga-teacher-training >
Iyengar, B.K.S. Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health. London: Dorling Kindersley, 2001.
Active Interest Media Company. Yoga Journal. 19 September 2010.
< http://www.yogajournal.com/ >