Scroll through photos and videos of headstands, and when done right, this yoga inversion can look effortless.
You need a certain level of body awareness and strengthplus patience and lots of practiceto master this pose.
How to do a headstand.
You’ll likely be properly warmed up but not yet too tired.
Headstands are also great for people who want to take the next step in their yoga practice.
Tips and warnings.
Headstand aren’t for everyone.
Pregnant folks should also not attempt the posture, adds Trice.
This can help you reduce your risk of cervical spine injury, says Trice.
“Take your thumb to the bridge of our nose, right where it meets your forehead.
Wherever your index finger touches the head, that’s where you want to be on your skull.”
Modifications and variations.
Here’s how to do it:
ensure your upper back is not rounded, says Trice.
And if the move hurts your head, double up your mat, suggests Kasperzak.
Then switch sides and try with the other knee and arm.
Once you are comfortable with that, you’re free to move onto tripod egg headstand.
Tripod egg headstand is an intermediate-level inversion that can help you work up to a full headstand.
Also: Don’t hug your elbows in; this puts more pressure on the head and neck.
Oh, and don’t rush the liftoff.
Take your time and go slowly, says Kasperzak.
This would be a slightly different variation of the headstand compared to what’s described above.
Benefits of headstands.
Also, as an FYI: Inversion therapyhas some of its own risksas well.
So what can we say about headstands specifically?
Headstands can also provide mental benefits for some practitioners.
“They can improve your focus and calm your thoughts,” explains Kasperzak.
After all, “When you are upside down, there’s not much else to think about!”
Headstands are an impressive pose that requires patience, diligence, and strength to master.
