Nail your headstand

Do you feel a little panic or hesitative when your yoga teacher ask you to do an inversion esp when you can't find a wall to lean against?

Or do you actually have no idea how to get the things started as a babe yogi?

Here are 4 major reasons why a tripod headstand is not happening on you.

Let's start with a tripod headstand prep!

1) your alignments are off To go up inverted, a stable tripod base is really important. Stand on your knees, and now make sure you have a) your palms as shoulders' width, spreading all your fingers, pressing firming onto your mat

b) top of your crown at the TIP of the tripod instead of aligning with your palms (common mistake of beginners!)

Tuck your toes. Get your knees off from the floor. Legs are like DD (downward facing dog). Walk your feet towards your chest until

c) your hips are right ABOVE your head (see teacher Kelsey's aligned pose^^)

d) torso, neck in one straight line (do not hug your back or bend your neck)

And then you engage your abs, lift one leg off and place the knee on your tricep, followed by the other. Hold for 5-10 breaths and come back slowly.

You are there--> Tripod headstand prep! And we always call it TEDDY BEAR as it looks like an inverted teddy bear, isnt it? tongue emoticon

2) weak core, weak arms and shoulders Make sure you have warmed your core and arms up well before you go into your inversion practice. Do some push-up variations, core exercises at home. Don't be lazy!!

3) you feel too much pressure on your head It's common and normal esp you are new to the headstand practice. Double your mat or place a towel to cushion your head. Relieving the slight pain at the top of your head may help you go into the pose easier!

4) you are too scared of falling over Find a wall (can be a human flesh smile emoticon as a support. Of course it would be best if there is a yoga teacher around and spot you. Therefore, come to Yoga Alfresco on 15th March and practice with us!