Headstand
Sirsasana
Sanskrit
Sirsasana
English
Headstand
Spanish
Postura sobre la Cabeza
Category
Inversion
Level
Advanced
Benefits
- Builds upper-body and core strength
- Improves focus and balance
- Stimulates circulation
Contraindications — when to avoid or modify this pose
- Osteoporosis/osteopenia
- Hypertension
- Glaucoma
- Detached retina
- Pregnancy
- Menstruation (traditional caution)
- Cervical injury or dysfunction
- Heart conditions
- Should only be learned under qualified supervision
Muscles worked
Contract / work (engaged)
- Shoulders (deltoids)
- Core / abdominals
- Forearms
- Upper back (trapezius)
Chakra
Traditional association, based on common hatha yoga teaching — not a medical or scientific claim.
Contraindications cross-checked against peer-reviewed neck-loading research on headstand (average 40-48% of body weight on the crown of the head).
This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for guidance from a qualified yoga teacher or medical professional. If you have an injury, a chronic condition, or are pregnant, consult a doctor and a certified instructor before practicing this pose.