Advanced Asana: Building Strength and Inversions

Playing with a wall-assisted handstand, or Adho Mukha Vrksasana. Using a wall is a safe and effective way to build the strength and confidence needed to eventually balance in the middle of the room.

A Scorpion Handstand variation against a wall. I love combining backbends with balancing postures to keep my practice interesting and challenging. It’s all about playing with shapes and seeing what your body can do.

Preparing for a handstand with some L-shaped hops in the studio. This drill is fantastic for building the core engagement and muscle memory required for inversions.

Finding balance in a variation of Sirsasana, or Headstand. Inversions calm the brain by increasing blood flow, helping us to find that quiet space that Patanjali speaks of.

Bakasana, or Crow Pose, on a large rock. Arm balances like this teach us to lean forward into the unknown, trusting our hands and our core to support us.

Another Bakasana, this time in a bamboo grove. This pose reminds us that our wings already exist; all we have to do is find the courage to fly.

Eka Pada Koundinyasana II, an advanced arm balance that combines a twist and a leg extension. This pose requires a lot of core and upper body strength, showing what is possible with consistent practice.

Utthan Pristhasana, or Lizard Pose, is a deep hip opener that prepares the body for more advanced postures. I always offer variations to make it accessible, no matter your flexibility.

Purvottanasana, or Upward Plank Pose, is an intense stretch for the entire front body. It strengthens the arms, wrists, and legs while opening the heart, making it a perfect pose to start your day.