How to do Headstand (Sirsasana)

So, you want to learn how to do sirasana or headstand. Sirsasana, or headstand pose, is a challenging yoga pose that offers many benefits. If you don’t succeed the first time you try, that’s to be expected. With practice, you’ll learn the alignment necessary and get the shoulder and core stretch you need to support yourself in this posture.

This post will teach you how to do Sirsasana properly with step by step instructions and alignment tips. We’ll also discuss the benefits of the pose and some contraindications. If you’re looking to improve your practice, this is a great pose to learn!

Benefits of Sirsasana

Sirsasana is an inversion, meaning that it reverses the blood flow in your body. This has many benefits including improving circulation, energy levels, and concentration. Inversions are also said to be helpful in relieving stress and tension headaches.

Contraindications of Sirsasana

If you have high blood pressure or any other health conditions, please consult your doctor before practicing sirsasana. Pregnant women should also avoid this pose.

How to do a Headstand Step-by-Step

Now that we’ve gone over the benefits and contraindications of Sirsasana, let’s learn how to do a headstand!

When attempting headstand it’s important that you place the right part of your head on the floor. That’s the flat part at the very top of your head.

Start in a tabletop position on your hands and knees. Make sure your wrists are directly under your shoulders and your knees are directly under your hips.

Bend your elbows so your forearms are on the floor and interlock your fingers. You’re forming a triangle with your forearms. Your head is going to go right at the top of that triangle between your hands.

Place the top of your head on the ground.

Straighten your legs bringing your hips up and back like you’re going into a down dog position. Firm the shoulders. The weight of your body will be supported by your shoulders, not your head.

Walk your legs forward. Shift your weight back so you come up onto your toes. Engage your core muscles.

Now lift your legs, using your core strength, up through the centerline of your body. Your legs stack over your shoulders. Your toes are pointed.

Keep your shoulders and elbows strong. Stay for five breaths. Come out of the pose slowly and go into child’s pose to recover.

There you have it! Now you know how to do Sirsasana, or headstand pose. Watch this video with Kino for a better understanding of the pose.

Remember to practice with caution and listen to your body. With time and practice, you’ll be able to master this challenging but rewarding pose!

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