Yoga for treating varicose veins part 4

Inverted postures in yoga are one of the lesser explored aspects, as it requires a few years of practise to master. But turning upside down has plenty of physical as well as mental benefits. Inverted postures reverse the action of gravity in the body, inverting the flow of blood, energy and reducing the burden from the heart muscles.

In the past few weeks, we have learnt that veins return blood to the heart and, if strained, they collect blood and swell, causing varicose veins. Practising inverted postures ensures that the veins function efficiently and there is no residual blood collected in them.

SHIRSHASANA (head stand)

Procedure:

1. Start with sitting down on your legs in Vajrasana.

2. Lean forward slowly, placing your elbows in line with the knees, as shown. Now, clasp your hands and place them on the ground. Make space for your head and place the crown of the head on the mat. The head is well supported by the hands and has to be kept in a stable position.

3. Next, raise your knees off the ground and hold for 10 seconds in the position and stabilise, as shown.

4. Now, concentrate and very slowly get your feet, one by one, off the mat keeping your knees bent in the air and balance until the body is completely still and balanced.

5. Last, straighten your legs out and hold in the headstand for 10-30 seconds before descending.

Note: Beginners can practice this posture against the wall or supports for the first few times until they achieve the pose completely.

Benefits:

1. Calms the brain and helps relieve stress and mild depression.

2. Stimulates the pituitary and pineal glands.

3. Strengthens the arms, legs and spine.

4. Strengthens the lungs.

5. Tones the abdominal organs.

6. Improves digestion.

7. Helps relieve the symptoms of menopause.

8. Therapeutic for asthma, infertility, insomnia and sinusitis.

Caution: Persons suffering from neck and back injuries should avoid this posture. Also, persons who have high blood pressure or heart problems should avoid all inverted postures.