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    Scorpion Pose (Vrschikasana)
    Teacher: Tara Lee
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    Scorpion Pose (Vrschikasana)

    A powerful inversion that fuses strength, flexibility, and daring balance, Scorpion Pose resembles the striking shape of a scorpion with its tail curled overhead.

    Category: Inversion / Backbend / Arm Balance

    Difficulty: Advanced

    Sanskrit/Pronunciation: Vrschikasana (vrish-chee-KAHS-uh-nuh)

    Main Focus: Shoulders, Arms, Core, Spine, Back

    Props: Yoga Mat, Yoga Bricks, Yoga Belt

    Scorpion Pose (Vrschikasana) is an advanced inversion and deep backbend that combines strength, balance and flexibility. Practised by balancing on the forearms and bending the knees to bring the feet towards the head, the pose requires stability through the shoulders and core alongside mobility through the spine and front of the body. Scorpion Pose is best explored gradually, with preparatory poses and props helping to build confidence, control and awareness before progressing into the full expression.

    How to Practise
    1. Begin in Forearm Stand (Pincha Mayurasana) with forearms shoulder-width apart and fingers spread wide
    2. Engage your core and gently bend your knees, starting to arch your back
    3. Slowly bring the feet toward the crown of your head, curling the spine and lifting the chest
    4. Keep pressing firmly into your forearms, keeping elbows stable and shoulders strong
    5. Gaze slightly forward or down, depending on neck comfort and balance
    6. Hold for a few breaths, maintaining control and breath awareness
    7. To come out, carefully straighten the legs and lower down with control, or tuck into Child’s Pose
    Benefits
    • Builds intense upper body and core strength
    • Increases spinal flexibility and opens the chest
    • Enhances focus, determination, and body awareness
    • Energises and uplifts the entire system
    Modifications
    • Practise against a wall to build strength and confidence
    • Work on preparatory poses like Forearm Stand, Bow Pose, and Wheel
    • Use a spotter or teacher when learning
    • Avoid if you have neck, shoulder, or lower back injuries

    Props to Support Scorpion Pose (Vrschikasana)

    Props can provide additional support as you build the strength, mobility and confidence needed for Scorpion Pose. Practise near a wall to support the feet and develop balance, place a yoga brick between the hands to help maintain alignment through the arms and shoulders, or use a yoga belt around the upper arms to help prevent the elbows from widening as you explore the inversion.

    Yogamatters Organic Cotton Chambray D-ring Yoga Belt
    Organic Cotton Chambray D-ring Yoga Belt
    £9.00
    Yogamatters Yoga Brick
    Yoga Brick
    £9.00
    sustainable eco friendly natural cork yoga block brick prop
    Cork Brick
    £15.00