Twisted Root Headstand

Steps

• Hold just above the elbows to measure distance.
• Place forearms on the mat and interlace fingers, check you can see the little finger inside the hands and connect the thumb tips.
• Bring the top of the head to the mat.
• Push the forearms into the mat to lift the shoulders away from the ears, lengthen the upper arms and stabilise the shoulders.
• Bring the feet together, tuck the toes and lift the hips whilst drawing the belly lightly in and back.
• Walk the toes in until the back is straight and the feet feel light.
• Lift the legs up keeping them straight if you can until you are in a headstand.
• Soften the knees and wrap the right leg around the left as in eagle pose.
• Squeeze the legs and lift the hips keeping the tailbone close into the body and the belly lightly engaged.
• Hold for as long as you feel comfortable and without any strain and leave enough energy to repeat on the other side for a similar amount if time.
• To release soften the knees and straighten the legs.
• Release the legs down keeping the straight and together of you have the control otherwise release one leg at a time.

Benefits

• Develops focus and balance.
• Increases confidence and trust.
• Builds strength in the shoulders, arms and legs.
• Increases blood flow to the head.

Contraindications

• Avoid if you have neck or shoulder issues.

Modifications

• Half headstand is a great way to get used to being upside down and start to build strength, stability and confidence.
• Use the wall when first trying this pose as a way to build confidence and trust.