Vrschikasana
वृश्चिकासन
Vrschikasana (Scorpion Pose) is a forearm balance with a deep backbend, feet reaching toward the head like a scorpion's tail.
Anatomy Involved
Benefits
- Ultimate shoulder and core strength
- Deep spinal backbend in inversion
- Develops fearlessness
- Master pose in arm balances
- Full anatomical benefits — muscles, joints, organs →
Avoid If
- Shoulder injuries
- Wrist injuries
- Neck injuries
- High blood pressure
- Heart conditions
- Pregnancy
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Teaching Cues
For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students
5 cues
Teaching Cues
For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students
- 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
Helps With
Pose Type
Body Focus
Focus Areas
Yoga Styles
When to Practice
Position
Target Areas
Practice Flow
About this Pose
Vrschikasana (Scorpion Pose) is a forearm balance with a deep backbend, feet reaching toward the head like a scorpion's tail.
How to Practice
1. Come into Pincha Mayurasana (Forearm Stand).
2. Elbows on the floor, body inverted.
3. Core and shoulders stable.
4. Exhale, bend the knees.
5. Bring feet toward the head — deep back arch.
5 more steps remaining
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Vrschikasana
What is Vrschikasana?
Vrschikasana (Scorpion Pose) is a forearm balance with a deep backbend, feet reaching toward the head like a scorpion's tail.
What are the benefits of Vrschikasana?
Ultimate shoulder and core strength. Deep spinal backbend in inversion. Develops fearlessness. Master pose in arm balances.
Who should avoid Vrschikasana?
Avoid this pose if you have: Shoulder injuries, Wrist injuries, Neck injuries, High blood pressure, Heart conditions, Pregnancy.
How many steps are in Vrschikasana?
Vrschikasana is practiced in 10 steps. Come into Pincha Mayurasana (Forearm Stand).
Is Vrschikasana suitable for beginners?
Vrschikasana is an advanced-level pose. Beginners should practice with props or under guidance.
What props are needed for Vrschikasana?
You may use: wall. Props make the pose more accessible and comfortable.
What conditions does Vrschikasana help with?
Vrschikasana is therapeutic for: strength, balance, flexibility.
What poses should I do before Vrschikasana?
Prepare with: Adho Mukha Svanasana, Standing Forward Bend, Forearm Stand. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.
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