A 40-minute Iyengar Yoga practice designed to help beginners learn Salamba Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) with confidence and clarity. Through three progressive variations, this class breaks the pose into manageable steps, allowing you to build understanding gradually while learning how to use props effectively.

Often referred to as the "Mother of All Asanas," Shoulder Stand is one of the most celebrated poses in the Iyengar Yoga tradition. While the posture may appear complex at first, a thoughtful, step-by-step approach allows students to develop the skills, alignment, and confidence needed to enjoy its many benefits safely.

Continue your practice inside Po Online where we build on these foundations with structured classes, progressions, and deeper study.

About This Practice

Salamba Sarvangasana is much more than an inversion. In Iyengar Yoga, it is regarded as one of the most important asanas because of its profound effects on both body and mind.

This practice introduces Shoulder Stand progressively, demonstrating three variations that build upon one another. Rather than rushing toward the final pose, you'll learn to appreciate each stage of the journey, allowing strength, confidence, and understanding to develop naturally.

A significant focus is placed on using props effectively. Far from making the pose easier, props help students experience better alignment, greater stability, and a clearer understanding of the actions that define a well-supported Shoulder Stand.

What You'll Practice

• Salamba Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)

• Three progressive Shoulder Stand variations

• Learning inversions step by step

• Using props safely and effectively

• Building confidence in Shoulder Stand

• Improving shoulder and upper body stability

• Developing a strong foundation for inversion practice

When to Use This Practice

• When learning Shoulder Stand

• To improve inversion technique

• When building confidence with props

• As a dedicated Shoulder Stand study session

• When revisiting foundational inversion skills

Who This Is For

• Students new to Shoulder Stand

• Beginners learning inversions

• Practitioners refining Salamba Sarvangasana

• Anyone wanting to better understand yoga props

• Experienced students revisiting the foundations

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Shoulder Stand called the "Mother of All Asanas"?

B.K.S. Iyengar described Shoulder Stand as the "Mother of All Asanas" because of its broad influence on the body and mind. It is considered one of the foundational poses of Iyengar Yoga and plays an important role in developing a balanced practice.

Why learn Shoulder Stand in stages?

Learning progressively allows the body to develop the strength, mobility, and confidence required for the pose. Each variation builds upon the previous one, creating a safe and sustainable learning process.

Why are props used in Shoulder Stand?

Props support proper alignment and help students understand the essential actions of the pose. They also make it possible to remain in the posture comfortably while developing greater awareness.

Is Shoulder Stand suitable for beginners?

Yes. When taught progressively and with appropriate support, beginners can safely begin learning Shoulder Stand through carefully selected variations.

How long does it take to learn Shoulder Stand?

Every student's journey is different. Progress depends on factors such as strength, mobility, confidence, and consistency of practice. Taking time to establish strong foundations leads to more sustainable progress.

Why is Shoulder Stand considered such an important inversion?

Shoulder Stand develops strength, concentration, balance, and body awareness while encouraging a quiet, steady quality of mind. For these reasons, it remains one of the cornerstone poses in the Iyengar Yoga tradition.

Continue Your Practice

If you enjoyed this class, you can continue your practice across the Studio Po ecosystem:

• Practice in-person at Po Toronto

• Explore full-length classes inside Po Online

• Read reflections and insights on Stephanie’s Blog