This week's pose: Shoulder Stand - because we're having fun with inversions!
Sarvangasana is an inversion pose, meaning that the toes are at some point above the head. You'll be focusing on your toes, but they'll be up in the air, so there's a nice little change of pace. Instead of looking to the ground, you'll be looking to the heavens. Sarvangasana improves circulation, relieves sinus pressure (head-cold sufferers rejoice!), and reduces varicose veins (bring it on!) while strengthening the neck and shoulders, calming the mind, and reducing stress (Black Friday crowds and Cyber Monday crashes be damned!).
Remember in this inversion, never look to the left or right; keep your focus on your toes the entire time. Doing this will prevent injury and help ease you into the posture for maximum benefit.
Begin on your back with your feet flat on the mat (this means your knees will be bent). Straighten your legs, raising your feet above you, so that you resemble the capital letter L. Gaze at your toes, and from this point on, do not let your gaze waver. Tighten your abdominals and use their strength to lift your legs up and over your head. You may have the flexibility to touch your toes to the ground above your head (this is another inversion called Plow). Now you may bend your elbows and bring your hands to your lower back as support. With your torso off the mat, supported by your hands, lift your legs upward and lengthen your tailbone towards your feet. Try to keep your elbows parallel to one another and not angled out (this is something I'm still working on!). *Sometimes it helps to have your instructor position your upper arms properly. Arrival!
Don't forget to dedicate part of your "practice" to trying new things. It could be a new posture, a new dish at a restaurant, or a new lipstick shade. Shake it up a little!
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