Niralamba Sirsasana

Last Updated: January 22, 2018

Definition - 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.

Niralamba Sirsasana

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.

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