Scorpion pose: 5 reasons to incorporate Vrischikasana into your yoga routine

Do you want to strengthen your core, increase flexibility, and improve your balance at the same time? Incorporating the Scorpion yoga pose or Vrischikasana into your exercise routine can be a way to do this. This posture is similar to the posture of a scorpion, the body is tilted backwards and the legs are on top, like a scorpion’s tail. It’s a powerful challenge that requires balance and body control. This yoga asana improves flexibility while strengthening the upper body and core muscles. If you want to challenge your body muscles to their limits, try the scorpion pose.

What is scorpion pose?

Scorpion pose is a classic yoga pose called the Sanskrit word vrischikasana where “vrischik,” means scorpion, and “asana,” a seat or posture. It is considered one of the most challenging and difficult forms of yoga, requiring balance, flexibility, and strength throughout. It involves raising your legs up and above your head, twisting your hips, and placing your feet in your hands. This results in a scorpion-like appearance, hence the name. This is usually done by experienced yogis because of its difficulty. It can be difficult for those who want to control themselves and develop their yoga practice,” says Himalayan yoga expert Siddhaa Akshar.

What are the benefits of scorpion pose or vrischikasana?

Here are some of the benefits of scorpion pose or vrischikasana:

1. Increases core strength

Scorpion pose is very useful for strengthening the heart. In order to maintain balance and stability during this period, the core muscles must be engaged. The abdominals, obliques, and transverse abdominis all work together to keep the body upright. In addition, the pose requires pulling the legs up and over the head, putting a lot of stress on the core muscles to keep the body in balance. This intense isometric workout builds core strength and endurance. A study published in the International Journal of Sports and Medicine found that regular exercise can help increase your core strength.

2. Improves flexibility

Exercising regularly improves flexibility and improves posture, as found in a study published in the International Journal of Yoga. Similarly, scorpion pose is a great way to improve flexibility. The pose stretches the back, shoulders, hamstrings, and hips. The spine is especially challenged when it is forced into the deep back. This can help improve spinal flexibility and range of motion. Additionally, this pose stretches the thighs and hips, which can help increase flexibility in the legs. Regular practice of vrischikasana can make a big difference in overall fitness. Find out why flexibility is important to your health and fitness.

3. Strengthens the back and shoulders

A study published in the Journal of Yoga and Physiotherapy found that practicing yoga can help you strengthen your back and shoulder muscles. Incorporating vrischikasana can help strengthen the back and shoulder muscles. As this requires the back muscles to contract to support the weight of the body and support the back. It can also help improve back strength and prevent injuries. In addition, the post stretches the shoulders, which can help increase flexibility and mobility. Over time, a regular practice of scorpion pose can improve strength and flexibility in the back and shoulders.

4. Reduces stress

Regular yoga improves focus, reduces stress and anxiety, and improves overall health, according to a study published in the International Journal of Preventive Science. Scorpion pose can be a secret tool for reducing stress and anxiety. Posing requires concentration and focus, which can help calm the mind and reduce racing thoughts. The post body challenge can also help you manage your stress and anxiety. As you focus on standing and overcoming physical obstacles, your mind can shift from anxious thoughts. In addition, a deep back in vrischikasana can help release tension in the body, making you feel relaxed and happy.

5. Improves blood flow to the brain

Vrischikasana is believed to promote blood flow to the brain due to the twisted position. “When the body is turned, blood can flow freely to the head and brain. This increase in blood flow can provide the brain with more oxygen and nutrients, which can help improve mental clarity, focus, and overall brain health. In addition, the deep back in the scorpion pose can lengthen the spine and promote circulation, increasing blood flow to the brain, “says the expert. However, more research is needed to confirm the claims.

How to do scorpion pose or vrischikasana?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do scorpion pose or vrischikasana, as suggested by the expert.

• Stand tall with your feet together and arms raised overhead.
• Exhale and bend your torso back, reaching your hands down.
• Place your hands on the floor, palms facing down.
• Keep your arms straight and aligned at the core to support your spine.
• Inhale and lift your legs off the floor.
• Bend your knees and bring your hooves to your buttocks.
• As you lift your legs, find your limit and switch your arms as needed.
• Keep your core and back straight.
• Exhale and reach your ankles or feet with your hands.
• If you can’t reach your feet, use a block or belt for support.
• With a firm grip on your feet or ankles, exhale and lift your hips off the floor.
• Straighten your legs and point your toes towards the ceiling.
• Hold the pause several times, breathing deeply and evenly.
• Inhale and slowly lower your legs back to the floor.
• Place your hands on the floor and slowly turn your back to stand.

Note: Before trying scorpion pose, make sure you have a solid foundation in yoga and are comfortable with other backbends. It is always recommended to practice under the guidance of a qualified yoga instructor.

Effects of scorpion pose or Vrischikasana

Vrischikasana is an advanced yoga pose that, when performed correctly, can provide many benefits. However, it is important to know the problems that can occur if the form is not performed with the right form or if you have a health problem.

• Back pain: If the Scorpion Pose is not performed with proper balance or if you have pre-existing back problems, it can exacerbate back pain.
• Title: The Scorpion Pose twist can sometimes cause increased blood flow to the head, which can cause headaches in some people.
• Dizziness: If you are not used to inversions, Scorpion Pose can cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Shoulder injuries: Improper hand placement or excessive stress on the shoulders can lead to shoulder injuries.
• Wrist Pain: If you have weak knees or are not used to supporting your body weight on your hands, you may have arm problems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it good to practice scorpions every day?

No, it is generally not recommended to do scorpion pose every day. Although it’s a powerful form with many benefits, it’s a super form that can be hard on the body.

2. When is the best time to do scorpion yoga?

The best time to do scorpion pose or vrischikasana is usually in the morning or evening.

That is why:

• In the morning: Morning exercises can help set the tone for the day and increase energy. The body is usually flexible and refreshed in the morning, which makes it easier to do difficult poses like Scorpion Pose.
• Evening: Exercising in the evening can help reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep. It is the perfect time to relax after a busy day.