Last updated: December 21, 2023
What Does
Niralamba Sirsasana Mean?
Niralamba sirsasana is an advanced headstand that requires a strong sense of balance and focus. The name comes from the Sanskrit, nira, which means “without”; lamba, which means “support”; sirsa, meaning “head”; and asana, meaning “posture” or “pose.”
Niralamba sirsasana is a variation of sirsasana, or headstand, but the arms or hands do not support any of the body weight in the pose. Instead, the arms provide balance without bearing weight. The arm position can vary, but in a common one, the arms reach forward with the fingertips touching the ground.
In English, niralamba sirsasana translates as unsupported headstand.
Yogapedia Explains Niralamba Sirsasana
As an inversion, niralamba sirsasana is believed to open the ajna (third eye) chakra, which promotes intuition and inner knowledge. It is also associated with an enhanced imagination, clairvoyance and visualization. This asana is additionally thought to activate the sahasrara (crown) chakra, which is associated with pure consciousness.
Niralamba sirsasana has a range of physical benefits, from purifying the blood to relieving asthma symptoms, but also offers these benefits:
- Connects the yogi with higher spiritual energy
- Stimulates vitality and health
- Calms the mind
- Boosts mental clarity
- Relieves stress
Because this is an advanced asana, niralamba sirsasana should only be attempted after mastering the supported version.
During These Times of Stress and Uncertainty Your Doshas May Be Unbalanced.
To help you bring attention to your doshas and to identify what your predominant dosha is, we created the following quiz.
Try not to stress over every question, but simply answer based off your intuition. After all, you know yourself better than anyone else.
Synonyms
Niralamba Shirshasana
Niralamba Sirshasana