Yoga Poses and Contraindications for Inversions

Oct. 22, 2009 - PRLog -- As we practice hatha yoga poses we also want to do inversions poses. Most common inverted yoga poses are the Headstand and the Shoulderstand. But these are not the only two poses which are the inverted asanas. In fact any yoga posture in which the head is below the heart is called an inversion. Whether you stand on your head, bend forward or bend back, if your head is below your heart, you are performing an inversion.

This also means that Downward Facing Dog, Standing Forward Bend and Fish pose are also inversions; although those poses are mild in comparison to a Headstand.  The Camel pose can also be an inversion if you bend back far enough.

Important point to remember is that - inversions are not for everyone!

It is important to have clarity when you perform any yoga posture. If the risks may outweigh the benefits there is no logical reason why you should practice any yoga pose which can harm you.

Contraindications for practicing inversions:
If you have any of the following conditions, please avoid inverted yoga poses or work with a qualified and experienced teacher who will never put you at risk and tried to modify your practice.

Anyone who has high blood pressure, heart related problems, eye issues (seen floaters in eye), neck problems, epilepsy, previous stroke or sinus problems should never practice Headstand or Shoulderstand, and omit other mild inversions or be adjusted by the yoga teacher.
During any stage of pregnancy, yoga should be practiced in a prenatal yoga classes specifically designed for that purpose or privately with a qualified pregnancy yoga teacher.
During menstruation, Headstand and Shoulderstand pose should preferably be avoided and other milder inversions should not be hold for long, although at the end of the day it is your personal choice.

If you are a yoga teacher, explain to your students why the inversions can be dangerous for them if they have any of the condition mentioned earlier.

In headstand most students put lots of weight on their head and neck instead of shoulders. Use your common sense and listen to your body. Intuition will never let you down.  

Some may question that why avoid headstand if I have high blood pressure? Because the danger is your blood pressure increase from 100/60 mm Hg (while standing on your feet) to 150/110 mm Hg or even higher when you go for headstand and if you already have high blood pressure it can make the situation worse.

http://www.yoga-london.org.uk

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About the Author
Ms Barbara is a certified yoga trainer and also a teacher in physical education. She is a member of REPs as Advance Instructor level 3.
She have been learning, practicing and teaching many styles of yoga for around 10 years. For more information about the author
http://www.yoga-london.org.uk/teachers.html