Headstand - NO, thank you!

Yoga: Headstand - No, thank you!

A change of perspective can often lead to a new view of the world – even without you having to strech your feet towards the sky. Yoga is much more than just physical exercises.

Many people don’t attend yoga classes to save the world or free themselves from emotional baggage. Nevertheless, yoga can have a subtle influence on our way of thinking and help you to have a lighter and freer attitude – quite incidentally. Clear instructions, simple asanas and well-guided meditations often work wonders.

The magic of initial relaxation

The yoga teacher takes you out of your stressful everyday life right from the beginning by providing a relaxing exüerience. The past disappears as you build up the asana step by step. This makes you more alert and present. When you lie in fish pose (Matsyasana) and your chest expands, more air flows in and out, which expands you both physically and mentally. Everyday thoughts disappear.

Presence in the here and now

Your mind effortlessly dwells in the present. The yoga teacher’s instructions guide you from one position to the next, your mind flows, it is always connected to what your body is doing. What a blessing! Headstand or crow are not necessary – less is more.

The effect at the end of the lesson

At the end of the yoga class you are so relaxed that you fall asleep peacefully in the final relaxation, just like a baby. Yoga means sinking into the moment, as still as falling snowflakes, as peaceful as a bear in hibernation. On the way home, the world seems to have a new glow, people smile in response to your inner radiance.

Gentle transformation

Without consciously realizing it, you have changed your view of the world, your values have been gently, naturally and effortlessly reversed. You radiate positivity that infects others and awakens the desire for more: more peace, more lightness, more yoga. This transformation often happens unnoticed, but its effect is deep and lasting.

But now back to the headstand:

Yoga and the headstand

The headstand, also known as Sirsasana, is considered one of the king postures in yoga. This demanding asana requires not only physical strength, but also balance and mental concentration. But the headstand is more than just a physical challenge it offers numerous benefits for body and mind.

Advantages of the headstand

Improved blood circulation: The headstand promotes blood circulation and ensures that more oxygen reaches the brain. This can improve concentration and memory.
Strengthening the muscles: Maintaining balance strengthens in particular the core muscles shoulder and arm muscles.
Stress reduction: The inversion posture can help to reduce stress and tension by activating the parasympathetic nervous system and thus promoting deep relaxation.
Inner balance: The headstand requires a high level of concentration and presence in the moment, which contributes to mental clarity and inner calm.

Execution of the headstand

Preparation: Start in a quadruped position and interlace your fingers in front of you. Place the top of your head on the floor and place your clasped hands behind your head to create a stable base.
Set-up: Stretch your legs and slowly walk your feet towards your head until your upper body is as vertical as possible.
Straighten up: Lift your legs one at the time and stretch them upwards. Make sure you keep your balance and use the strength in your core.
Hold and breathe: Hold the position for a few breaths and concentrate on breathing calmly and deeply.
Reduction: Slowly lower your legs and return to a quadruped position in a controlled manner.

Safety instructions

Only practice the headstand under the guidance of an experienced teacher, especially if you are a beginner.
Make sure you don’t feel any pain in your neck or shoulders. Stop the exercise immediately if you feel unwell.
People with neck problems, high blood pressure or eye diseases should avoid the headstand or practice it with caution.

By practicing the headstand regularly, you can not only improve your physical fitness, but also develop mental strength and inner balance. Dare to discover new perspectives – and not just in a figurative sense!

Namastè:
Harald

Read also: The long way to your shoelaces
Or these good articles at Yoga EASY.

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Yoga: Headstand - No, thank you!

Yoga and the headstand

Harald Heintze

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