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Advanced Iyengar Yoga: Arm Balances and Inversions

byMadhava RLive online classes via ZoomStarts from₹1,200 per monthView full gallery

Mastering advanced asanas requires more than just raw strength. It demands precise alignment, controlled breathing, and a deep understanding of your own anatomy. My classes teach you how to build this foundation safely, using props to unlock postures that may seem impossible.

Salamba Shirshasana (Supported Headstand) against a wall. This is the classic form of the pose, building strength in the arms, shoulders, and core. The wall is used for safety as you build stability.

Astavakrasana (Eight-Angle Pose). An advanced arm balance that requires significant arm strength, core engagement, and hip flexibility. The body is supported entirely on the hands.

Eka Pada Galavasana (Flying Pigeon Pose). This arm balance combines a deep hip opening with the challenge of balancing on the hands. It requires both strength and flexibility.

Upavistha Konasana in Shirshasana (Wide-Angle Seated Pose in Headstand). This variation challenges your balance and core control while in an inversion.

Parivrtta Eka Pada Shirshasana (Revolved One-Legged Headstand). This twisting variation in headstand requires immense core strength and a refined sense of balance.

Ekapada Viparita Dandasana (One-Legged Inverted Staff Pose). An advanced backbend and inversion that requires tremendous strength in the back, shoulders, and legs.

Baddhakonasana in Shirshasana, supported by chairs. This demonstrates how props can be used to safely explore complex variations of advanced postures.

Viparita Shalabhasana (Inverted Locust Pose) with feet on a chair. This is a powerful back-strengthening pose that prepares the body for arm balances and deeper backbends.

About Advanced Asanas: Arm Balances and Inversions

Advanced inversions like Shirshasana or arm balances like Astavakrasana are not just displays of strength; they are an exercise in control. When you practice online with me, we do not simply jump into the pose. We use chairs, belts, and wall support to isolate the movement and correct the alignment of your spine and shoulders, ensuring you build the necessary stability before attempting the full expression of the asana. Hagga bittu hidibeku (you must hold the rope tight); it is about discipline and careful execution, not rushing to the final shape.

45+ years of Iyengar yoga practice — Approved by the tribe
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Madhava R

Live online classes via ZoomStarts from ₹1,200 per month

I am Madhava, and I have dedicated over 45 years to the Iyengar lineage under the guidance of my Guruji, Dr. B.K.S. Iyengar. My classes are not for those looking for a quick workout. We focus on the discipline of the pose and the precision of the breath. If you are serious about understanding the mechanics of your own body, I am here to teach you.

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Holding Bakasana in a natural setting. This arm balance builds powerful wrists, arms, and core muscles, but more importantly, it teaches focus and the ability to find stillness and balance even when in a challenging position.

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