Half Headstand
Ardha sirsasana

What is Half Headstand?
Half headstand, or ardha sirsasana in Sanskrit, is a preparatory pose for full headstand. Here, the toes remain on the ground as the yogi builds upper body strength and confidence.
Instructions
- Begin in on all fours. Place the forearms on the floor and the elbows no wider than the shoulders.
- Interlace the fingers, pinkies on the floor.
- Place the top of the head on the floor. Cup the back of the head with the palms.
- Inhale and straighten the legs. Walk the feet toward the hands until the torso is perpendicular to the floor.
- Breathe while holding the pose.
Cautions
- Avoid this pose if there is migraine, neck or spinal injury, glaucoma, high blood pressure, heart disease, or brain injury.
Benefits of Half Headstand
- Strengthens the shoulders, neck and back
- Tones the abdominal muscles
- Improves balance
- Brings fresh blood to the brain
- Benefits the pituitary and thyroid glands
- Builds confidence for more advanced inversions
Half Headstand Details
- Sanskrit Name
- Ardha sirsasana
- Pronunciation
- ar-dhah SHEER-SHAH-sah-nah
- Pose Level
- Beginner
- Drishti
- Padayoragre (Tip of the toes)
- Pose Type
- Core, Inversions, Strength
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