Headstand is also known as “King” of all yoga poses. Headstand is a pose that is an inversion posture of standing head down. It is an energizing pose and has immense benefits on physical and mental health.

1. Mental Enhancement– Headstand yoga increases blood supply to the brain cells which enhances thought clarity, increases concentration span, improves focus and sharpens memory.
2. Strengthen your arms, shoulders and upper back-This posture utilizes strength of your shoulders, upper back and arms to keep the pressure of your head and neck and improves strength of the upper extremity.
3. Strengthen your core muscles– Rectus abdominis, transverse abdominis and obliques are engaged to hold your legs up and keep your balance throughout the pose. It’s a good workout for your core, thereby improves posture too.
4. Reduces stress-Headstands reduce the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. It also increases blood flow to the brain and releases endorphins, responsible for relieving stress, anxiety and depression.
5. Improves digestion by stimulating pituitary gland– Headstand yoga allows you to release trapped gases, improve blood flow to the digestive organs and nutrient absorption.
6. Decreases fluid built up in legs– Reversing the effects of gravity on your bodily fluids, Headstand help in draining the fluid retained in legs and feet.

One should not practise Headstand if you have any of the following conditions

• Neck pain/injuries
• Shoulder pain/injuries
• Low back pain
• Hypertension
• Glaucoma
• Cardiovascular disorders
• Ear and eye problems
• Osteoporosis.
• Periods/Menstruation
• Pregnancy
• Acid Reflux
• Children below 7 years of age

Precautions with Headstand–

1. Headstand is a physically challenging pose and a difficult pose to master that must be learnt from a trained practitioner. To begin with, one can start by taking support of the wall.
2. Do not pop into the Headstand pose, use controlled movement to get into and out of the pose.
3. Maintaining proper alignment of the body is important, otherwise it may lead to injuries rather than the benefits.
4. Practice Headstand pose on an empty stomach.
5. Do headstand on a soft surface.
6. Breathe at a normal pace.
7. Always rest by lying down on your back for at least 30seconds to a minute after the Headstand pose or until your head feels clear, before you sit up.

STAY HEALTHY AND STRONG!

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