
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.