Chat do Cate Blanchett and Paul McCartney have in common? Apparently nothing if it weren’t for a whim, which isn’t such a whim after all: stand upside down. This is the most classic yoga position, It’s called Shirshasana and offers many benefits, both physical and mental. Two above all: it increases concentration, it is no coincidence that the risk of falling is just around the corner, and it helps to see the world from a new perspective, literally.
Yoga: upside down, the position loved by celebs
Paul McCartney is a fan of this position: on his social profile, between one selfie and another, posts appear of him in the Shirshasana position next to the dog. And he’s not the only one. Cate Blanchett has also repeatedly declared that she puts herself upside down whenever he can to regain his energy. And she’s right.
As many yoga teachers explain, this type of position is part of the inverted/inverted ones and has notable benefits on the body and mind. The first to enjoy new energy is for example the circulatory system: going upside down means allow more blood to flow to the brain, thus allowing you to clear your mind, to think clearly and make decisions with more awareness. In other words, mental work is stimulated. In addition to moving the energies you have improvements also in muscles and legs. Not only that but being upside down also means focus on your limits and increase your sense of self-confidence.
Shoulder and leg area, the physical yoga benefits of standing upside down
Surely the muscles most involved are those of the neck, shoulders and backIn fact, maintaining the position allows you to strengthen the muscles of this entire area but in general the entire musculature is strengthened because you work on its flexibility, as well as strengthening that of the arms, buttocks and waistline. Standing upside down is a particularly recommended position for those who often have leg pain or feel heavy: in fact it means moving liquids, reducing liquid retention and helping in case of constipation.
Furthermore, an often little-known detail, this position improves epidermal tone. Perform it, or in general practice antigravity yoga, It stimulates not only blood circulation but also lymphatic circulation: thanks to greater blood flow and oxygenation, the skin of the face appears more toned and compact, especially in the chin area and the contours of the oval.
When to avoid the position
Is this a position suitable for everyone? No. Standing upside down is for example very not recommended for pregnant women but also during the menstrual cycle. At the same time, It is not suitable for those with back and neck problems precisely because there is considerable pressure on these areas.
Furthermore It should be avoided if you have eye problems such as detachment of the retina: in fact, while this position sharpens the vision on the one hand, on the other it also puts pressure on the eyes, which is why it should never be practiced even if you have conjunctivitis problems. The same goes if you suffer from ear infections.
Shirshasana, for beginners
But how to practice it if you are a beginner? A detail not to be underestimated, never put yourself upside down if you have never tried this position and without an expert beside you. Concentration is fundamental in performing shirshasana, which is why it is a position that greatly stimulates the mind: by relaxing and concentrating you are able not only to perform it but also to maintain it, managing to find your balance.
Also important, as experts point out, is go upside down near a wall, especially if you are new to it, so as to lean on and stay away from various furniture. The ideal is to start gradually, relaxing the body and without being afraid, starting to find balance when you rest your head on the floor and slowly raise your legs. With the help of an expert you can buy safely.
iO Donna © ALL RIGHTS RESERVED