Step-By-Step Breakdown: Headstand

Headstand is referred to by some as the “king” of all yoga poses due to its multitude of benefits. As with all inversions, headstand flips your perspective and alleviates pressure on the heart because it doesn’t have to work as hard as it normally does to get blood to the upper body. It is a full upper- and mid-body workout that strengthens your arms, shoulders, and core. Among many other benefits, headstand is said to stimulate digestion, calm the brain, reduce stress and mild depression, and be therapeutic for sinusitis, asthma, infertility, and insomnia.

All benefits aside, the neck was not meant to be weight-bearing, so if you have any neck injuries, avoid this pose—the injuries you will incur will not be worth it! If you have a healthy, strong neck, have fun with this step-by-step breakdown and really take it one step at a time—jumping into this one would be dangerous. As with all yoga, don’t forget to breathe, be patient, and have fun. The pose will come to you when you are ready. Enjoy the journey!