Headstand perspectives

It was my nineteenth cystoscopy today, as the appointment neared it was more difficult to concentrate on other things. However, focusing on being present really helped. Hence extra time spent meditating and doing yoga.

I’ve fallen in love with headstands and found they are an excellent way to keep my attention on the here and now. The headstand (Salamba Shirshasana) is one of the king yoga poses due to the wealth of benefits it brings.

Headstands:

• help calm the mind and reduce stress
• strengthen the upper body and core
• boost balance and energy
• stimulate the lymphatic system and abdominal organs
• regulate hormones

But don’t do them if you have high blood pressure, are pregnant, have a neck or shoulder injury or have just had an operation.

At first, I was very apprehensive about doing headstands but learned from my teachers how to practise safely and began to enjoy them and the alternative perspective they bring.

At the beginning practice against a wall or door for support.

• Kneel on the mat (after warming up)
• Clasp your elbows and place them on the mat in front of you.
• Make a triangle with your elbows and clasped hands.
• Place your head on the mat nestling it in your hands.
• Bring your knees off the ground and start walking towards your head until your back is straight.
• Engage your core with your back straight and your feet can begin to lift off the ground.
• Bend your knees into a half headstand.
• Stay here and breathe deeply and if you feel up to it extend one leg then the other into a full headstand.
• Relax in a Child’s pose (Balasana) afterwards.

Today the headstanding has brought some calm and the understanding that no matter what the outcome today I feel well and will manage what the future has in store with good balance.

Update newsflash – all is clear. No Evidence of Disease.