Posture of the month: Sirsasana

In August, we will turn your world upside down: Come along and practice Sirsasana with us, the head stand!

Often referred to as the king of yoga postures, the headstand has been practiced in different yoga systems for centuries, and has been known by many names. Sirsasana (say: Sheer-Sha-sana), in Sanskrit, simply means head stand, or head posture. (From Sirsa: head, and Asana: posture).

While the body is completely inverted and supported by the forearms, the crown rests slightly on the ground. It helps boost energy in the body, is said to increase immunity and helps to activate and balance the throat, third eye and crown chakra.

The main muscle groups that benefit from practising headstands are lower back, biceps and triceps, and the neck. If you, however, are having health concerns like high blood pressure, heart palpitations, a hernia or you are menstruating, this posture isn't recommended.