Salamba Sirsasana (Headstand) - Why are we doing it?
Last week in class, I was asked about the benefits of headstands. I quickly gave an answer, but I thought I would go further into the benefits of Salamba Sirsasana here for you to read! I am referencing Light on Yoga by B. K. S. Iyengar (Guruji) and Yoga: A Gem for Women by Mr. Iyengar’s daughter, Geeta Iyengar.
‘Salamba means with support. Sirsa means the head. Its mastery gives one balance and poise, both physically and mentally.’
Effects of Sirsasana:
‘The ancient books have called Sirsasana the king of all asanas, the reasons are not hard to find.
The practice of Sirsasana, if correctly performed, rejuvenates and revitalises the whole body. The upside down position counteracts the effects of the normal upright position of the internal organs, which have a tendency to drop and sag and thus to become sluggish. The Sirsasana position gently coaxes them to a new life. The body is kept warm with increased blood circulation, the haemoglobin content of the blood is increased, and respiration and digestion are improved.
Many minor ailments such as colds, sore throats, and backaches are cured by the practice of Sirsasana.
However, its main effects are on the brain, and anyone suffering from tiredness, loss of physical and mental vitality, poor intellect, and weak will-power should practice this asana religiously and regularly in order to gain mental and intellectual clarity and strength.
Regular and precise practice of Sirsasana develops the body, disciplines the mind, and widens the horizon of the spirit. One becomes balanced and self-reliant in pain and pleasure, loss and gain, shame and fame, and defeat and victory.
In short Sirsanasa develops the body and disciplines the mind so that you can become balanced within.’
B. K. S. Iyengar’s advice for beginners:
‘It takes time for the beginner to become oriented to their surroundings whilst balancing in headstand. Everything will seem at first to be completely unfamiliar. The directions and instructions will appear confusing, and they will find it an effort to think clearly or to act logically. This is due to the fear of falling. The best way to overcome fear is to face with equanimity the situation of which one is afraid. Then one gets the correct perspective and in not frightened anymore. To topple over while learning the headstand is not as terrible as we imagine. If one overbalances, one should remember to loosen the interlocked fingers, relax, go limp, and flex the knees. Then one will just roll over and smile…There will be a few spills and one must learn the art of falling as indicated above. Learning Sirsasana in the middle of the room gives the beginner great confidence.’
