By Bronwyn Ison
Viewing life right side up is common for each and every one of us. It would literally be unusual and contrary for us to see things upside down. Stepping outside of our habitual behavior patterns is challenging and asking you to go upside down may sound utterly crazy. Balancing on your forearms or walking on your hands is simply an invitation to stir life up a bit. Yes, I am talking about performing a headstand or handstand or possibly a gentler inversion.
Why would I propose such an oddity? We can attain a different perspective on life when we see things from a different point of view. Performing inversions is certainly not for everyone and caution is absolutely necessary. Inversions are often executed in yoga classes and occasionally in other workout regimens. An inversion is categorized as a yoga pose (asana) in which the head is below the heart. The first kind of inversions that comes to mind is that of headstand, handstand, forearm balance but there are gentler inversions that can be enjoyed. In fact, downward facing, legs up the wall and standing forward folds are just as beneficial. Some people simply do not have the strength to balance all of their body weight onto their arms. This is perfectly fine and other inversions can be performed that are simple.
It is possible certain health conditions would preclude a student from performing an inversion such as a previous injury or illness. You would want to avoid inversions if you have un-medicated high blood pressure, some heart conditions, neck injuries, a recent stroke, detached retina, glaucoma or epilepsy. A professional yoga instructor or fitness trainer should instruct the more challenging inversions. There are several alignment principles that need to be followed when inverting. Securing a guide as well as hands on adjustments can take you to new heights.
Why would we want to invert? There are numerous health benefits to placing your head below your heart.
1. When we invert it allows us to reverse the blood flow and improves our circulation. Gravity is your friend in this case.
2. We can increase our immunity and prevent illness. The lymphatic system is in high gear. The lymph moves through the body to pick up toxins and these are released by the lymph nodes.
3. Get ENERGIZED! Flipping upside down can give you a good boost of energy.
4. RELAX! The calmer inversions (legs up the wall) are cooling inversions and help calm the nervous system and produce feelings of being balanced and calm.
5. Improves your balance. We could all use a little help in this area.
Along with the five benefits above you can also improve your core strength and confidence. Stay humble and you will recognize you will see things from a different perspective. Plus, inversions are FUN!
To learn more about practicing inversions safely visit a yoga studio or consult a fitness professional who knows how to teach and assist you properly. Seeing life upside down may really allow you to see so much more right side up.
Bronwyn Ison is the owner of Evolve Yoga. Bronwyn has been practicing and studying yoga for 14 years. Visit us online ~ www.e-volveyoa.com or (760)564-YOGA(9642)
