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Sarvangasana - The Shoulder Stand

Physical Benefits of the shoulder stand

• The main benefit of the Shoulderstand is that it strengthens and balances thyroid function. Perhaps the most important gland in the endocrine system, the thyroid supervises the other glands. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located just below the larynx; it regulates the body's metabolism and heat production, promotes the growth and development of the body, and controls the heart rate. Many weight (both under and over) problems are the result of a poorly functioning thyroid. Regular practice of the Shoulderstand can help to overcome these.

• The thyroid promotes protein synthesis and proper growth of the muscle and bone tissues. It controls the heart rate, heart contractability and blood pressure.


• Because of the chin pressing on the throat, a rich blood supply is brought to this region. In the Hatha Yoga system there is a special lock   known as Jalandhara Bandha, which is naturally reproduced when one is in the Shoulderstand. Jalandhara bandha regulates the heart, helps to reduce high blood pressure and slows breathing.


• Larynx and pharynx derive increased blood supply and hence maximum nutrition. This helps to strengthen their immunity to various respiratory diseases and throat ailments.