Headstand

Sālamba Śīrṣāsana

Headstand
CategoryInversions TypeBalance LevelAdvanced Hold30 sec MusclesShoulders, Core, Arms, Neck BreathingEven, calm breathing

How to do it

  1. EnterInterlace your fingers, set your forearms on the floor, and place the crown of your head in the cup of your hands. Straighten your legs, walk your feet toward your torso, and gently lift your legs up, ideally against a wall.
  2. HoldMost of your weight is on your forearms, neck long. Your body is gathered into one vertical line, legs active. At the slightest sign of fatigue, come out.
  3. ExitSlowly and with control, lower your legs, and be sure to rest in Child's Pose.

Benefits

The king of poses: balance, focus, and blood flow to the head.

Cautions

  • Neck injuries
  • Hypertension
  • Glaucoma
  • Menstruation
  • Pregnancy
  • Only after learning it with a teacher

This site is for general information and is not medical advice. If you have pain, an injury, a chronic condition, or are pregnant, check with a qualified professional before practicing.

Counterpose

Child's Pose Child's Pose Beginner

Where it appears

Similar poses

Forearm Stand Forearm Stand Advanced Handstand Handstand Advanced Shoulder Stand Shoulder Stand Intermediate

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