Half Headstand (Ardha Kapalasana)
Benefits
In yoga, we can overcome our fear of inversions and this is one of
the greatest benefits of half headstand. You are faced with fear and
insecurity and it challenges you to get out your comfort zone. By
practicing this pose you build your strength in the wrists, arms and
shoulders, while it also improves your sense of balance. Moreover, it
strengthens and engages your core muscles.
Common Mistakes
Hands or elbows might be too wide. Don’t hatch your back, keep
your spine straight. Don’t hurry to lift your legs and don’t forget to
engage your core. Many students also forget to do a child’s pose at
the end.
DIMITRIS PAPAPETROU IS THE MAN ON THE MAT
Tips
For newbies and beginner practitioners, you may experience
some discomfort, even some pain in your wrists and hands. This
is completely normal. This preparation is perfect for gaining the
strength neccessary in both the wrist and the shoulder girdle to
practice full headstand and handstand.Awareness
Get on all fours and place your hands on the floor keeping the
elbows bent, breathe deeply and effortlessly, and place the top
of your head on your mat. Lift your heels and walk your feet
towards your elbows, keeping your back staight and place your
knees on your triceps. At the end, stay in child’s pose for at least
15 seconds.Dimitris Papapetrou is director of Yoga Europe (yoga-europe.com)