Handstand
Adho Mukha Vrksasana
What is Handstand?
Handstand, or adho mukha vrksasana in Sanskrit, is a challenging inversion and popular advanced posture that builds a sense of physical equilibrium and confidence. The yogi balances on their hands using the strength of their core and arms.
Instructions
- Begin in downward-facing dog pose with the hands shoulder distance apart, fingers spread wide.
- Exhale and walk the feet toward the hands until the torso is almost vertical.
- Inhale and kick the feet up toward the sky, one at a time and with control. Actively stretch the feet upward as the hands push down into the floor.
- Breathe while holding the pose.
Cautions
- Avoid if there is shoulder injury
Benefits of Handstand
- Develops physical equilibrium
- Strengthens wrists and arms
- Strengthens core and spine
- Improves digestion
- Stimulates lung function
- Improves circulation
- Improves focus and builds confidence
Handstand Details
- Sanskrit Name
- Adho Mukha Vrksasana
- Pronunciation
- ah-dho moo-khah vrik-SHAH-sah-nah
- Pose Level
- Advanced
- Drishti
- Nasagre (Tip of the nose)
- Pose Type
- Arm Balances, Balancing, Core, Inversions, Strength
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