Yoga 101: Shoulder Stand

I think of Salamba Sarvangasana, or shoulder stand, as a “superfood” pose. It’s the kale of yoga. Sarva, in Sanskrit, literally translates to “everything” or “whole.” If that’s not enough to get your legs in the air, stop reading now. Begin by lying flat on your back with your arms flat on the floor next to you. Bend your knees and curl your torso as you bring them towards your forehead. You can support your back with your hands as you unfold your legs straight up into the air.

Benefits:

• Relieves stress and anxiety by increasing blood flow to the heart and brain.
• Speeds up metabolism
• Tones entire body
• Lengthens the spine
• Detoxifies the body by increasing lymphatic drainage
• Relieves menstrual pain, constipation, headaches, sore throats, and asthma