Shoulder stand is one of the most challenging postures of yoga. For some people, the pressure on the neck is too much, causing discomfort and pain. The use of a specialized yoga prop, often called a shoulder stand bench is one way to make shoulder stand attainable.
The purpose of a shoulder stand bench is support for the body in the pose. A bench is great for relieving tension and pressure in the neck, shoulders and lower back. A shoulder stand bench takes the weight off the shoulders and neck, allowing the student to relax and experience the pose.
On the typical shoulder stand bench, you hang from the thighs. The bench helps to lift the body to relieve the tension and the back of head rotates toward the spine. This takes the strain off the neck.
Use of a bench helps to relieve the back, neck and shoulder tension that makes shoulder stand difficult for many people, allowing you to experience the benefits of shoulder stand. The shoulder stand bench stretches the spine, neck, shoulder and chest muscles. The positioning of the body allows the internal organs to relax.
Most shoulder stand benches are made with rich, hearty wood. Look for features such as height adjusters when selecting a shoulder stand bench. This helps to elevate the bench a few inches and can be adjusted specifically for the individual.
The shoulder stand bench is not like a yoga mat or strap; a bench is not required. However, if you have set the goal of mastering shoulder stand, need the support and have the money to spend, you may love a bench.
Money may be an issue when deciding whether to purchase a shoulder stand bench. These benches are not cheap. You can expect to pay a few hundred dollars for a good quality shoulder stand bench. These benches are often hand crafted with the finest quality woods and this is reflected in the price.