01/02/2021
Excerpt from Light on Yoga by B.K.S.Iyengar:
'The importance of Sarvangasana cannot be over-emphasized. Sarvangasana is the Mother of 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.
It is a panacea for most ailments. There are several endocrine organs or in the human system which bathe in blood, absorb the nutriments from the blood and secrete hormones for the proper functioning of a balanced and well-developed body and brain. If the glands fail to function properly, the hormones are not produced as they should be and the body starts to deteriorate.
Sarvangasana works on the thyroid and parathyroid glands that are situated in the neck region. Healthy blood is allowed to circulate around the neck and chest. As a result, persons suffering from breathlessness, palpitation, asthma, bronchitis, and throat ailments get relief. As the head remains firm in this inverted position, and the supply of the blood to it is regulated by the firm chinlock, the nerves are soothed and headaches -even chronic ones – disappear.
Continued practice of this asana eradicates common colds and other nasal disturbances. Due to the soothing effect of the pose on the nerves, those suffering from hypertension, irritation, shortness of temper, nervous breakdown and insomnia are relieved..
The asana is recommended for constipation, urinary disorders and uterine displacement, menstrual trouble, piles and hernia.
With regular practice a person will feel new vigor and strength, and will be happy and confident.
People suffering from high blood pressure should not attempt Sarvangasana I unless they do Halasana first and can stay in it for not less than 3 minutes.'