Viparita Dandasana

Viparita Dandasana: Inverted Straight Rod Pose for Arthritis
Submitted by Helen Mikuska, E-RYT500, IYTA, SOYA lead trainer in Calgary, AB
Arthritis is inflammation of the synovial joints of the body and is one of the most common of all disabling diseases, afflicting 1/10 people.  Arthritis is a crippling degenerative process which can eventuate in irreversible destruction of the joint.  The condition is characterized by pain, swelling, redness, heat and loss of function in one or more joints.  Those most often affected are the large, weight-bearing joints (hips, knees and ankles) and the small joints responsible for repeated, finely articulated movement, such as the fingers.  In the science of yoga arthritis is not considered to be a disease in itself, but rather one symptom of a widespread metabolic and pranic malfunction which begins early in a person’s life.  Yoga offers a way to arrest this progress.  In fact, in the early stages, before irreversible damage to the joints has occurred, a complete reversal is often possible.  In the later stages, yogic practices can reduce drug dependency, maximize remaining mobility & function in joints and make one’s life more tolerable and acceptable.
Viparita Dandasana is a very restorative asanas for arthritis. You will need some props for this restorative pose.
a rectangular bolster
a small cylinder bolster
3 foam blocks
2 blankets
3 eye pillows (if you have them)
Place a foam block at top of the rectangular bolster, and a folded blanket on top the block (where the head will rest). Place another folded blanket below that (to rest thoracic spine). Angle the two foam blocks to either side of bolster on the mat (to rest your forearm and hands on). Sit in front of this setup & place the cylinder bolster under knees. Recline back & enjoy pose. Add eye pillows to rest in palms. Place another eye pillow over the eyes. You may remain in the pose for up to 15 minutes. Enjoy!
Benefits: Improves breathing & circulation throughout the body. Relieves tension. Pose can be used during pregnancy.
A “Yoga for Arthritis” workshop will be presented by Helen Mikuska, January 24, 2016 from
1:00-5:00 p.m. at Harmony Yoga and Pilates Studio in Calgary. In this workshop the practice of yogic shatkarmas, pranayamas, bandhas, asanas, mudras, meditation & yoga nidra will be covered as well as a diet component with recommended foods and herbs to reduce inflammation in the body. $50.00 (incl. gst) contact info@harmonyyogapilatesstudio.ca