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06/10/2003: "Headstand"

The headstand is one of the more dramatic yoga moves, especially when done on the end of a conference room table, but despite its appearance it isn't really all that athletically demanding. The headstand builds upper body strength, improves circulation and balance, and provides a great stretch for your upper back. Would you like to have a go?

First, as before any strenuous exercise, warmup and loosen your joints. The best way to do this is with the Sun Salutation, refer to May archive, but anything will do. Then, on a soft carpet, clear an area large enough to allow you to tumble forward in a somersault without coming in contact with anything that might hurt you. This tendency to tumble forward will pass as your strength and balance improve but for now, if you feel yourself going over, simply bend your back and roll and you'll be fine.

Let's get started. Kneel down on the carpet. Butt your hands together in front of you, at about eye level, one on top of the other with your thumbs touching. Your lower arms should now be forming a triangle. Bend forward from your kneeling position and place the triangle, formed by your hands and forearms, on the floor in front of you. Take a visual check to see if your forearms are still at about a 45 degree angle. Okay? If so, place the top of your head on the floor with the back of your head firmly against your hands. If you can't do this comfortably, move the triangle of your forearms forward or backward until you can do it comfortably.

Now you're ready for the Walkup. Straighten your knees, shifting your weight forward and on to your forearms, not your head, until your back is straight. Make minor adjustments to your balance by walking forward or backward with your toes. When you feel stable, begin to lift your toes off the carpet. If you're not strong enough yet, do the Walkup a few times and try again tomorrow. If you get your feet up but tumble over immediately, try again, each effort will improve your performance.

You'll be ready for the conference room table in no time.

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Replies: 4 Comments

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Cliff said @ 06/17/2003 08:22 PM CST

Where is the "Sun Salutation" how to?

I'm Ready said @ 06/17/2003 07:48 PM CST

You get back only what you put in. The first step is the tough one.

Cliff said @ 06/10/2003 07:13 PM CST

Makes me feel mighty athletic. Too bad my body can't keep up with my ambition.

teeney said @ 06/10/2003 03:38 PM CST