Yoga Postures – Handstands

Handstands are great for building core and upper body strength and on a more subtle level, presence of mind.  In order to balance in these particular yoga postures, we need to be present and when we are present, our minds are calm and our breath is relaxed.

Yoga Postures – Handstands

It is important to develop a solid foundation when practicing these particular yoga postures, in order to prevent instability when up side down.  Your weight needs to be evenly spread on the palms of your hands so as not to put excess weight into the wrists.  When working  at a more advanced level, you will need to actively work your fingers in order to free stand.  In both cases (headstands as well), you balance by rooting firmly in your foundation and lengthening your legs up toward the sky.

Inversions reduce strain on your heart, expand your lungs to clear breathing, works against gravity and increases the flow of blood to your brain to both calm and rejuvenate your mind.

Any sort of Inversion offers you the opportunity to view the world from a different angle and therefore helps to open ones mind.

 If you can hold Downward-Facing Dog or Plank pose for more than 30 seconds without any discomfort in your wrists, elbows or shoulders, then you should be able to comfortably hold your handstand.

Have fun and enjoy the challenge.