Handstand

The handstand is an advanced yoga inversion wherein the practitioner balances on the hands. In addition to improving balance, this pose fosters core strength, refreshes the mind and energizes the body.

To perform a handstand, begin in downward-facing dog pose. Walk toward the hands until the torso is nearly vertical, then kick the legs up. With a firm core and strong arms, the body extends upward as the individual balances entirely on the hands. The legs are kept activated, stretching toward the ceiling and lengthening the body.

Handstand pose is called adho mukha vrksasana in Sanskrit.