Half Headstand

Ardha sirsasana

Half Headstand

What is Half Headstand?

Half headstand, or ardha sirsasana in Sanskrit, is a preparatory pose for full headstand. Here, the toes remain on the ground as the yogi builds upper body strength and confidence.

Instructions

  • Begin in on all fours. Place the forearms on the floor and the elbows no wider than the shoulders.
  • Interlace the fingers, pinkies on the floor.
  • Place the top of the head on the floor. Cup the back of the head with the palms.
  • Inhale and straighten the legs. Walk the feet toward the hands until the torso is perpendicular to the floor.
  • Breathe while holding the pose.

Cautions

  • Avoid this pose if there is migraine, neck or spinal injury, glaucoma, high blood pressure, heart disease, or brain injury.

Benefits of Half Headstand

  • Strengthens the shoulders, neck and back
  • Tones the abdominal muscles
  • Improves balance
  • Brings fresh blood to the brain
  • Benefits the pituitary and thyroid glands
  • Builds confidence for more advanced inversions

Half Headstand Details

Sanskrit Name
Ardha sirsasana
Pronunciation
ar-dhah SHEER-SHAH-sah-nah
Pose Level
Beginner
Drishti
Padayoragre (Tip of the toes)
Pose Type
Core, Inversions, Strength
Share this:

Related Poses

Email Newsletter

Subscribe and get the stories about the greater change that comes from yoga.