Niralamba Sarvangasana I (Unsupported Shoulderstand I) registers as 3* on Iyengar’s 60* scale of difficulty.
As Iyengar notes, each variation of Sarvangasana becomes progressively more difficult. Without the use of your hands or arms to press you up and away from the floor, maintaining an erect spine in Niralamba Sarvangasana I proves even more challenging than Salamba Sarvangasana II. As a result, my spine curves more dramatically than it does in the previous asana. This misalignment is a clear indicator that I’m not quite strong enough to explore this pose in my daily practice. In the meantime, I can focus on Salamba Sarvangasana I and II to build the abdominal and back strength necessary for an easeful Niralamba Sarvangasana I.
Related posts:
- Supported in the Arms of the Mother: Salamba Sarvangasana I (Supported Shoulderstand I)
- A Challenge Written on the Body: Salamba Sarvangasana II (Supported Shoulderstand II)
- Journey Toward Strength in Salamba Sirsasana with Urdhva Dandasana (Upward Staff Pose)
- Rejoicing in Minute Movements Toward Salamba Sirsasana III (Supported Headstand III)
- Learning Your Strengths in Salamba Sirsasana II (Supported Headstand II)
Tags: alignment, asana, Iyengar, Light on Yoga, Niralamba Sarvangasana I, Salamba Sarvangasana I, Salamba Sarvangasana II
