Friday, February 1, 2013

turn your life upside down

Modified Headstand





Headstands that every body can do. 

The benefits of a headstand are so spectacular that everyone should be able to share in the glory.  Well, yes, you can. 

First, let me touch upon some of the benefits and please share with us if you have experienced some of these benefits or some that I haven't mentioned here.
Benefits include:
nervous system
reverses the effects of gravity
      increase mental alertness
     increases circulation
    relieves stress and strain

Avoid this pose:
high blood pressure
detached retina, glaucoma
hiatal hernia
neck injuries
menstruating
pregnant


Headstand or Shirshasana
When you come into a modified headstand pose, you let go of the fear.  With practice you will become steady, sure and confident.  There should be no strain anywhere.  Keep it safe, slow and come out of it whenever you are unsure or feeling unsafe.  Do not stay in the pose or continue the pose if you feel pain or discomfort.  Work on the foundation, learning the correct arm, head and shoulder position. 

Here's How
1.  Place a folded blanket at the top of your sticky mat.
2.  Begin in Child's pose.  Already your heart is above your head, gaining the benefits of blood flow, relaxation and tension release. Child's pose alleviates head, neck and shoulder pain as well. 
3.  Interlock your fingers, and bring your forearms and hands to the floor. (on the blanket)
4.  Form a triangular shape with your hands and elbows, place your head on the floor. (hands cupping the head)
5.  Lift your pelvis off the floor, bringing your weight onto your arms and head.

Stop here feeling the benefits of this pose so far then if you want to go a bit deeper

6.  Bring yourself into a modified Downward-Facing Dog. Breathe!
7.  Rest in Child's pose



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Janine is a Yoga Instructor and Ayurveda Wellness Counselor, practicing from her home studio in Massachusetts and Ogunquit, Maine. Janine's work includes recovery from illness, trauma and stresses caused by everyday living.   She teaches and coaches from her home studio (the yoga room), Groton Wellness spa in Groton, MA, Cancer Care Center of York County, Compass Rose Yoga and York Hospital's Wellness Center as well as your own home environment.
 Janine's yoga practice has tremendous therapeutic effect on your body. Not only does it work your physical body, it works on better breathing, vitality, concentration, healing and relaxation.   As an Ayurveda and Yoga Wellness Counselor, she will provide guidance on ayurvedic and yogic lifestyle change to bring about greater health and harmony.            Call for more information   207-251-9577