The ‘king’ of all yoga postures, the headstand. In this inversion, the effect of gravity on the body is completely reversed. Blood pressure is increased in the head and reduced in the feet.
Headstand can seem intimidating at first, but with determination and the practice of preparatory postures (Dolphin, Downward Dog and Tadasana) almost everybody (accept those with neck injuries or high blood pressure) can perform Sirsasana. But don’t expect to be able to do it right away! This is an advanced posture, and takes practice, good core strength, focus and body awareness.
How to do it-
Come into a seated position, sitting on your heels.
Grasp your right elbow with your left hand and your left elbow with your right hand (this gives you the correct distance between your arms to give you good stability).
Place your arms on the ground in front of you. Ensuring you keep the elbows where they are, clasp the hands together, interlocking the fingers. You can tuck the little fingers in here if this is more comfortable (your arms should now form a triangle shape on the ground).
Bring your head down between your clasped hands (about an inch or two away, somewhere between the hair line and the crown of the head).
Slowly begin to straighten your legs, and raise your hips towards the sky.
Walk your feet towards your head until you cannot walk any further.
Begin by slowly raising one bent leg, and then the other. Stay in this version of headstand for a couple of breaths, really focusing on engaging the core muscles and establishing your base.
Slowly begin to straighten the legs.
Engage the quadriceps and slightly tuck the tail bone under. Root down with your head and arms and rise up through your feet (think about your posture in Tadasana/Mountain Pose.. In head stand its the same, but up side down!
Benefits
Headstand increases mental power and concentration.
Stimulates the lymphatic system.
Reduces water retention in the legs.
Increases blood flow to the head and scalp (some believe that it stimulates hair growth!)
Develops strength in the core muscles.
Strengthens the shoulders and arms.
Contraindications
Inversions are not recommended if you are pregnant, menstruating or have high blood pressure.
