Oh, inversions… such a fun part of yoga! For me, starting to learn to balance on my hands and head was a way to move that I haven’t before. Headstand helped me look at my fear and overcome it, because this yogi is not kosher with being upside-down. The biggest game-changer was consistent practice to build confidence and strength with proper form (because nobody likes pesky injuries). As with learning any new skill, with practice and patience, you’ll be confident in your abilities in no time.
Below are my four essentials when you’re beginning the inversion journey. Give them a try and let me know how it went!
Still working on building strength? Check out my post to do just that!
Forearm Plank
Starting in a low-plank, press the ground away from you to engage the shoulders. Core stays firm as you hold for five to six breaths.
Forearm Plank Walk-ins
From the forearm plank, walk the feet forward as far forward as you can. Continue to press the ground away to help build shoulder strength. Hold here for three breaths. Continue ‘walking’ back and forth for three to five rounds, pausing for three rounds of breath in each pose.
Headstand Leg Lifts
Now coming towards a headstand position with the legs staying on the ground. The goal here is to begin to get a feel for lifting off, pressing through the shoulders and keeping the core engaged to help balance. Lift each leg five times holding for once breath each.
Headstand Tuck
At last! Lifting the feet off the ground, but not too much for it to feel scary. Hardly any weight should be on the head (i.e. on the neck). Pulling in as if you’re doing an inverted crunch. This will help build core strength and trust of being upside-down. Hold here for five to six breaths. If you’re feeling confident, begin to lift your legs into full headstand!
Pin the full flow below!
