Inversions are an important aspect of asana practice. One of the most well known inversions is Salamba Sarvangasana or Supported Shoulderstand. BKS Iyengar calls “Sarvangasana is the mother of all asanas. As a mother strives for harmony and happiness in the home so this asana strives for the harmony and happiness of the human system (Light on Yoga p. 212).”
In order for you to enjoy your Salamba Sarvangasana the proper set up is necessary. Senior Iyengar Yoga Teacher, John Schumacher demonstrates how to set up and do the pose safely
Essential Set Up – 3 blankets, mat, block
Need more lift under shoulders – add an extra blanket
For more comfort in the back of head – set up your three blankets on top a half open blanket
Learn More About Salamba Sarvangasana
Light on Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar pg. 205 to 213
Iyengar, B.K.S. Light on Yoga. New York: Schoken Books 1979.
Yoga a Gem for Women by Geeta Iyengar pg. 197 – 201
Iyengar, Geeta. Yoga a Gem for Women. Canada: Timeless Books 1990.
Yoga the Iyengar Way by Silva, Mira, and Shyam Mehta pg. 108 -109
Mehta, Silva et al. Yoga the Iyengar Way: The New Definitive Illustrated Guide. New York: Knopf 1990.
