half shoulder stand / ardha sarvangasana

Half shoulder stand improves circulation of blood and lymph, stimulates the thyroid and immune system.

Lying on the floor with the arms along side the body with the palms down, bend the knees and kick and rock the legs up and back, bringing the bent knees to the forehead and placing the hands under the hips.

Cupping the hips like you are holding a big bowl of fruit, begin to lift the legs up, straightening them over your head. Support the weight of the body with the arms and the shoulders, having very little or no weight in the head and neck.

Find a position where you can balance the legs over the head and relax the leg muscles, using as little effort as possible to be still.

Breathe and hold 4-10 breaths.

To release: bend the knees back to the head, and carefully and slowly roll the spine back onto the floor.

Legs up the wall pose: have the hips resting on the floor next to a wall and the legs up the wall.

Recent or chronic shoulder, neck or back injury or inflammation, unmedicated high blood pressure, menstruation, pregnancy (after 1st trimester).

plow, wind relieving posture, bridge, shavasana.

Ahimsa, the yogic practice of non violence must be adhered to when engaging in the practice of hatha yoga. Respect your body's limitations and inner wisdom, if something feels wrong or dangerous, please do not do it.

Please consult your health care practitioner before starting a yoga, pranayama or other exercise program.