Superman Pose (Viparita Shalabhasana)

The Superman Pose is similar to a flying superman high in the air. This is where this yoga posture gets its nickname.

viparita = inverted/ reversed; shalabh = locust; asana = pose/posture

It is pronounced as Vip-a-RHEETH-uh shah-lah-BHAAHS-uh-nuh

This posture is particularly helpful in strengthening your lower back muscles.

How to do Superman Pose (Viparita Shalabhasana)

• Lie on your stomach with your toes flat on the floor; chin resting on the ground.
• Keep your legs close together with your feet lightly touching each other.
• Now stretch your arms out to the front as far as you can.
• Take a deep breath in and now lift your chest, arms, legs and thighs off the floor.  You resemble a flying super hero – Superman! Spread the smile on your face – superheroes are always happy, especially in flight. Rather than making an effort to raise your hands and legs more, make a gentle effort to stretch your arms and legs away from your torso. So, feel the pull that is occurring at both ends. Ensure that your elbows and knees are not bent.
• Keep breathing with awareness; keeping your attention on the stretch.
• As you exhale, gently lower your chest, arms and legs.

Benefits of the Superman Pose (Viparita Shalabhasana)

• Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the chest, shoulders, arms, legs, abdomen and the lower back
• Tones the abdomen and lower back
• Massages the spine and keeps the back supple
• Helps stretch the chest
• Improves blood circulation
• Also works at the mind level – when you take off, you can’t but stay in the present moment. Even if you want to, you can’t think about any problem!
• Can be a good workout for the abs and stomach

In the Padma Sadhana sequence, Superman Pose (Viparita Shalabhasana) forms the fifth pose, after Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose).

Contraindications of the Superman Pose (Viparita Shalabhasana)

Do not practice this yoga posture if you have had an abdominal surgery recently or if you are pregnant.

View All – Yoga Postures Lying On Stomach

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Yoga practice helps develop the body and mind bringing a lot of health benefits yet is not a substitute for medicine. It is important to learn and practice yoga postures under the supervision of a trained Art of Living Yoga teacher. In case of any medical condition, practice yoga postures after consulting a doctor and an Art of Living Yoga teacher. Find an Art of Living Yoga course at an Art of Living Center near you. Do you need information on courses or share feedback? Write to us [email protected].

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