The power of chakrasana and Sirsasana: Flexibility, Focus, and full-body benefits
Why is it called Chakrasana?
In Sanskrit, "Chakra" means wheel or energy centre, and "Asana" means posture. When you perform this pose, your body forms a circular shape like a wheel. Symbolically, it unlocks energy flow through the spine, especially through the heart chakra (Anahata) and throat chakra (Vishuddha).
What happens inside the body during chakrasana?
- This spine bends deeply, which stretches the vertebrae and improves spinal mobility.
- Lungs expand fully, allowing more oxygen into your system, making you feel energised.
- This nervous system is stimulated, promoting alertness and mental clarity.
- The heart opens, reducing emotional tightness and sadness.
- shoulders and arms take the body weight, strengthening the upper body muscles.
- Thighs and glutes are active, stabilising the body and improving leg tone.
Energetic Effects:
This asana aids in clearing emotional and energetic blockages within the body.. Many people feel a sense of joy or emotional release after holding chakrasana for a few breaths.
Pro tips for Beginners:
- Practice bridge pose (Setu Bandhasana) first to prepare.
- Don't force the back. Take your time.
- Use a yoga wheel or block under your hands for support
Sirsasana (Headstand) - Deep Dive
Why is it called the king of asanas?
Inversions are powerful in yoga, and Sirsasana reverses the usual energy direction. Blood, breath, and prana are drawn towards the brain, which brings clarity, stability, and deeper awareness. It gives the highest physical and mental control, like a king ruling calmly.
What happens inside the body during Sirsasana?
- Blood rushes to the brain, feeding it fresh oxygen and nutrients.
- Heart rate slows down, calming the entire nervous system.
- Digestive organs are compressed and released, boosting gut health.
- Facial skin gets oxygen-rich blood, giving glow and skin tightening.
- Shoulders, arms, and core must stay active to balance the body.
Mental Benefits:
- Improves concentration and alertness
- Helps you fight overthinking and brain fog
- Clams the "monkey mind" - constant mental chatter
- Builds courage and inner discipline
Energetic Effect:
Pro tips for Sirsasana:
- Always do balasana (child's pose) after to balance pressure.
- If you're new, headstand if you're dizzy, tired, or emotionally unstable.
Advanced Combination practice tip
If you're ready, you can combine these two in a short, powerful session:
- Warm-up: 5 rounds of surya namaskar
- Chakrasana: 2 sets of 30 seconds
- Sirsasana: Hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute
- Balasana: Rest and normalise blood flow
- Meditation or Pranayama: To complete the cycle
This short practice covers flexibility, strength, blood circulation, nervous system balance, and mental clarity.
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