Sirsasana (Headstand) – Weekly Intermediate Class 77

This weeks intermediate class looks exclusively at sirsasana. It includes an array of preparatory poses that can be beneficial if you are new to this pose and looking to establish a foundation, or more experienced with sirsasana and looking for some strengthening supplementary poses. The action of kicking up is practiced initially without your head being in contact with the floor. This ensures that your neck is protected whilst the technique is being learnt. From there a block is used to isolate and support the region of the upper back that is most inclined to collapse in sirsasana. Eventually your head is brought lightly to the floor but still with the support of a block. From there the action of rotating your outer upper arms is explored with a block placed between your hands, this maintains lift in your shoulders and ensures that your neck will avoid compression. The technique of interlocking your fingers and placing your hands behind your head is then explored in a kneeling position before commencing with the full inversion.

Finally the full pose is attempted with the support of a wall. Techniques from the previous variations are then incorporated into sirsasana. This class will benefit students who are transitioning from the beginner section of the website into the weekly Intermediate classes. More experienced students will also benefit from this tutorial on such a fundamental yoga pose. The short length of the video allows it to be easily practiced in addition to other classes.