Last updated: December 21, 2023
What Does
Ardha Sirsasana Mean?
Ardha sirsasana is a basic inverted yoga posture that serves as a preparatory pose for the full version of sirsasana. From Sanskrit, ardha means “half”; sirsa means “head”; and asana means “posture” or “pose.”
From downward-facing dog pose, the forearms lower to the ground with the fingers interlocked, forming a triangular shape, and the crown of the head rests on the ground between the forearms. The spine should be perpendicular to the ground with the legs straight and the feet raised onto the toes.
In English, ardha sirsasana is known as half headstand.
Yogapedia Explains Ardha Sirsasana
Traditionally, ardha sirsasana is believed to open the sahasrara (crown) chakra. This chakra is the center of higher knowledge, intuition, inspiration and enlightenment. By activating this chakra, the yogi creates a sense of stability, selflessness and reliability. He/she gets in touch with his/her own spirituality, thereby radiating divine love and manifesting self-realization. Sahasrara is also associated with confidence and decisiveness.
As an inversion, ardha sirsasana has a range of physical benefits, including increased blood circulation to the brain. It also:
- Calms the mind
- Boosts energy, thereby reducing anxiety, fatigue and stress
- Improves concentration and memory
- Helps create inner peace
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Synonyms
Ardha Shirshasana
Ardha Sirshasana
Ardh Sirshasan