SU
Intermediateinversion

Supported Shoulderstand I

साলম্ব सर्वाङ्गासन १

Salamba Sarvangasana I, or Supported Shoulderstand, is an inversion that strengthens the upper body and calms the nervous system. It stimulates the thyroid gland and improves circulation.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

4
  • Neck problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Glaucoma
  • Menstruation

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Kicking up with momentum instead of controlled engagement
Collapsing into the shoulders — push the floor away
Holding the breath — maintain steady breathing
Looking around the room — keep the gaze steady
Coming down too quickly — lower with control

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

5 cues
  • 1Engage the core to maintain stability
  • 2Press firmly through the foundation — hands, forearms, or head
  • 3Keep the body in one straight line from base to feet
  • 4Breathe steadily — do not hold the breath
  • 5Come down slowly and with control

Pose Details

Pose Type

inversion

Body Focus

shoulderscorespine

Focus Areas

strengthflexibilitybalancebreathing

Yoga Styles

iyengarhathaashtanga

When to Practice

peak posecool down

Position

inverted

Target Areas

DeltoidsAbsNeck

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Salamba Sarvangasana I, or Supported Shoulderstand, is an inversion that strengthens the upper body and calms the nervous system. It stimulates the thyroid gland and improves circulation.

How to Practice

1

1. Lie supine on a mat. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor.

2

2. Exhale and lift your legs, then lift your hips off the floor.

3

3. Support your lower back with your hands, keeping your elbows shoulder-width apart.

4

4. Gradually walk your hands up your back towards your shoulder blades as you straighten your body, bringing your legs up towards the ceiling.

5

5. Press your chin toward your chest, keeping your neck straight and relaxed.

4 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Supported Shoulderstand I

What is Supported Shoulderstand I?

Salamba Sarvangasana I, or Supported Shoulderstand, is an inversion that strengthens the upper body and calms the nervous system. It stimulates the thyroid gland and improves circulation.

What are the benefits of Supported Shoulderstand I?

Calms the brain and helps relieve stress and mild depression. Stimulates the thyroid and prostate glands. Strengthens the shoulders, arms, and back. Improves digestion. Helps relieve the symptoms of asthma and infertility.

Who should avoid Supported Shoulderstand I?

Avoid this pose if you have: Neck problems, High blood pressure, Glaucoma, Menstruation.

How many steps are in Supported Shoulderstand I?

Supported Shoulderstand I is practiced in 9 steps. Lie supine on a mat. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor.

Is Supported Shoulderstand I suitable for beginners?

Supported Shoulderstand I is an intermediate-level pose. Beginners should practice with props or under guidance.

What props are needed for Supported Shoulderstand I?

You may use: blanket, wall. Props make the pose more accessible and comfortable.

What poses should I do before Supported Shoulderstand I?

Prepare with: Adho Mukha Svanasana, Standing Forward Bend. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

Combine Supported Shoulderstand I with other poses