Eric, thank you!

I am really enjoying the learning experiences offered in these classes. I have a headstand practice, but cannot lift into headstand using the blocks (just 2) as described. Judging by the other comments, this should be a wonderful addition to my practice. Any thoughts?

Hi Juliet! 

Yes Nathan, that is it in a nutshell. Without blocks, no problem, I can lift straight up into a headstand. With the blocks, I can raise my hips, but cannot lift all the way up. There are many poses, that I accept are a work in progress, but I have been doing headstands for years and just don't understand what the difficulty is! Any insight would be appreciated.

Juliet, I believe the issue is that the blocks prevent you from shifting forward (toward the wall) with your shoulders and thoracic spine. When you do this movement without the blocks it puts your center of gravity at an advantageous leverage position to draw the legs up. Without that shift you would need very mobile hips to essentially fold tightly, then lift. Does that make sense?

Yes, thank you that does make sense. I shall embrace the pose, for what it is! You're classes are so interesting and inform my approach to the rest of my practice. I am most grateful for the videos and for the comments.

Juliet, it is quite an experience to lift up with the blocks in place. If you’d like to try it, you can place a chair near your feet when you set up the pose. Once you like your knees, set the feet on to the chair seat. Lift one leg up to full headstand. Then if you feel you have the mobility and strength, bring the other leg up. I will caution you that I requires good shoulder mobility, like pichamayurasana. So be wise with the attempt :)

Interesting, powerful and fun. My body likes this work

Martha K :) now that sounds like a power session! 

Great practice, Nathan! I've enjoyed doing it! Kind regards!