The Scorpion Pose or Vrischikasana is an inverted backbend pose. Designed to enhance the strength and flexibility of the practitioner, the Scorpion Yoga Pose is one of the more
awkward poses to master and advanced practitioners should only attempt it.
The pose focuses on the back, hips, abdomen, and legs and is effective in toning the body. Since this is an advanced pose, it is recommended that you check with your doctor first before attempting it. Also, consult a yoga professional to teach you the steps in a systematic manner.
Steps :
1. Start off in the Dolphin Pose. This pose is a variation of the Adho Mukha Svanasana or the Downward Facing Dog Pose. It is also known as the Catur Svanasana or the Quarter Dog Pose. It is similar to the Downward Facing Dog Pose, but instead of your bodyweight being borne by your hands and feet, the weight is carried by your hands, forearms, and feet.
2. Inhale and lift your right leg into the air as high as you can. You are now in the Tri Pada Adho Mukha Svanasana or the Three-Legged Downward Facing Dog Pose.
3. Slowly kick the raised leg backwards, and lift your another leg off the floor as well. Now your entire body weight is on your palms, forearms, and elbows.
4. Center yourself as you strive for balance.
5. Arch your back and try to bring your feet as close to your head as possible by bending your knees. Concentrate on stabilizing your core muscles to maintain your balance.
6. Keep your head facing forward with eyes focused on an imaginary point on the floor in front of your arms.
7. Hold this posture for a couple of breaths.
8. Exhale and slowly come back to the starting position.
Precautions :
First and foremost, if you are new to this pose, it is a good idea to perform it under the guidance of a certified yoga instructor. Do not attempt this pose until your yoga trainer or guru tells you that you are ready for it.
You should not perform this pose if you suffer from any hip or back problems. If you have a history of heart disease, it is best to avoid this posture.People who have high blood pressure or suffer from vertigo should also avoid performing the
Scorpion Pose.
Beginner’s Tip:
Here are a couple of beginners’ tips for performing the scorpion pose. When you are new to theVrischikasana, you may initially find it difficult to balance your torso and legs in mid-air. Try to perform Scorpion Pose yoga next to a wall, chair, or other support. When you swing your legs up into the air, you can support your feet against the wall. Once you are sure of your balance, slowly bend your knees until you come into the Scorpion Pose.
Benefit to Body Part:
The Vrischikasana is an excellent way to strengthen your torso and back and get rid of stubborn fat from these areas. It also helps to strengthen your arms and your shoulders. The Scorpion Pose also helps you to improve your sense of balance. This is also an excellent posture for enhancing the flexibility of the spine.
It also helps to build stamina and endurance. Therapeutic Applications: This inverted position allows blood to rush into the brain. Thus, it can contribute to improving memory and concentration. The Scorpion pose also stimulates the hair follicles in the scalp and can be used to arrest
hair loss.
It also helps to release stress that accumulates in the shoulders and the spine. When performed correctly under the guidance of a trained instructor, it may also be used to treat back problems such as slipped discs.