Sirsasana - Headstand, the King of Asanas

Sirsasana or headstand is an inverted posture (because your head is below you heart).

It is often called the king of asanas because of its benefits: it supplies nutrient-rich pure blood to the brain, which connects to our whole body and acts as a regulator. Thus kindling and regulating the entire body function by increasing blood supply to scalp and brain. Other benefits also include:

• Relieves stress.

• Increases focus.

• Improves blood flow to the eyes.

• Strengthens shoulders and arms.

• Improves digestion.

• Helps to flush out the adrenal glands.

• Decreases fluid build-up in the legs, ankles, and feet

But before we go upside down, realise that it's totally okay if headstand isn't right for you, or your body. In fact there are a number of factors that may get in the way of your doing the pose that are totally out of your control. For example, if you have degenerative disk issues, structural imbalances in your back, or neck and shoulder issues—DO NOT DO A HEADSTAND. But even if nothing is standing in your way, there are some things to keep in mind before attempting your first headstand.

1. Practice alignment. Are you at the right place on the top of your head? Is there a curve in your spine?" These are all important things to consider to prevent injury.

2. Don't put all the weight in one place. The goal is to have less than 10 percent of your body weight in your head. Distribute the weight along the outer edges of the hands, the wrists, forearms and elbows. And it is it's crucial to engage the rest of your body, core, glutes, and legs.

3. Control your speed. You shouldn't be kicking up into this pose. You’ve got to go up slow, and you’ve got to come down slow.

Now, for the moment you've all been waiting for: Here's how to actually get your body into that headstand.

• Inhale from Downward Dog and come to a kneeling position.

• Exhale place your elbows on the floor about shoulder's width apart. Interlace the fingers and lower the top of the head to the floor between the hands with the back of the head gently cradled in the hands.

• Inhale straighten the legs and walk the feet towards the face. As you feel the weight transfer from your feet to your head you may bend the knees and lift the feet from the floor. Slowly raise the legs as you straighten them. The body should be as perpendicular to the floor. Keep the feet together with the toes pointing towards the sky. Remain here for 5 deep breaths.

• Exhale lower your feet to the floor slowly. Rest in child's pose.

Finally, whether you can pull off a headstand or not, that doesn't make you any more or less of a yogi or yogini. Always remember that Yoga is about awareness. The way that we approach each pose is just as important as the doing of the pose. It’s still yoga even if you choose not to headstand.

Namaste

Ana xxx