Inverted postures, such as Sirshasana (Headstand) or Adho Mukha Vrksana (Handstand), do not leave any yoga practitioner indifferent: some adore them and others avoid them out of fear and lack of confidence in their ability to face them. In this YogaYe blog post we give you some helpful tips for doing inverted yoga poses. Inverted postures require strength, control and balance, qualities that are worth cultivating, both in our yoga practice and in our daily lives. Among other benefits, putting the head below the heart increases our energy level, encourages us to look at things from another perspective (literally) and helps us fight fatigue and depression.
- In general, it is recommended to do a good warm-up before trying inverted postures such as Handstand.. For example, a few laps of Surya Namaskar or Salutations to the Sun make breathing become conscious, deep and fluid while activating the muscles to be used during inversions: in the upper back, abdominal area, arms, hands and legs.
- In yoga consistency is very important.. For this reason, it is also suggested to try the inverted postures frequently, every day, if possible. In this way, strength and confidence are cultivated and learning to let go of fear.
- Fear can be an ally rather than an enemy if we allow ourselves to be guided by it, using it to advance with intelligence and with the senses wide awake. Many teachers tell us that inverted poses are great for changing our relationship with fear.
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Use a wall if the fear of falling is the main barrier for you to try the inverted poses. Another good idea is to ask your teacher to provide physical support during class when it comes time to do Headstand or other inversions like Handstand.
- Knowing our limitations and respecting them can be of great help. There is no need to be in a hurry and not measure yourself with others. Forcing the pace to achieve inverted poses can increase the risk of injury. We have to work from where we are with honesty and developing strength at our own pace.
