Seated Asana · Beginner (Level 1) · Catalog #800226

Neck Rolls Griva Sanchalana

Slow circles and half circles of the head. Releases the cervical tension that undermines every seated practice.

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Neck Rolls (Griva Sanchalana) — Seated Yoga Posture Illustration

Neck Rolls (Griva Sanchalana) — Seated posture targeting Traps, Shoulders · Slow and even breath · Eyes closed drishti.

Vāta: Pacifies (-1) Pitta: Pacifies (-1) Kapha: Neutral (0)
Sanskrit Name
Griva Sanchalana
Posture Family
Seated
Difficulty
Beginner (Level 1)
Recommended Hold
45 seconds
Breath Pattern
Slow and even
Drishti (Gaze)
Eyes closed
Target Muscles
Traps, Shoulders
Energy Expenditure
1.3 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Neck Rolls

Neck Rolls (Griva Sanchalana) belongs to the Seated posture family and engages the Traps, Shoulders at an intensity of approximately 1.3 METs. Slow circles and half circles of the head. Releases the cervical tension that undermines every seated practice.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain Slow and even throughout the 45-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Eyes closed to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Traps, Shoulders.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 3 years (24 months).

Ayurvedic Dosha Profile (Vāta, Pitta & Kapha)

In Ayurvedic asana sequencing (Dosha Provenance: modern-synthesis), every posture shifts Vata, Pitta, and Kapha according to its mechanical compression, heat generation, and grounding stability:

  • Vāta Effect: Pacifies (-1) — pair with slow nasal breathing and unhurried transitions to prevent excess mobility or dryness.
  • Pitta Effect: Pacifies (-1) — keep the jaw, temples, and abdomen soft when holding for 45 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Neutral (0) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

  • Neck injury
  • Vertigo

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