10 Reasons to try yoga inversions
Yoga inversions are often seen as advanced poses, reserved for only the most experienced of yogis. While they do require a bit of arm strength and balance, they're nothing to be scared of and can really be a lot of fun!
In this blog we’re exploring some of the benefits of getting upside down for both your body and your mind (spoiler: it can even help with ageing!). Plus we’re sharing our favourite ways to play with yoga inversions and arm balances in your daily life and hopefully showing you that yoga inversions aren’t just reserved for those who’ve been practising their headstands for years. Stay tuned for a fun demo from our very own upside-down-yogi, Martina.
What are yoga inversions?
Inversions are any pose where your heart is higher than your head, and they can range from simple poses like downward-dog to more challenging arm balances and headstands. When you're upside down, blood flow reverses and fresh blood flows into the brain, giving you an energising boost.
While many people shy away from inversions because they seem daunting, they are actually a great way to release tension and improve circulation. Inversions also provide a unique form of play therapy, as they help to shift your mood and give you a new perspective on things. So the next time you're feeling a little down, try getting upside down, and see how it makes you feel.
What are the benefits of yoga inversions?
So, are yoga inversions good for you? In a word: yes! Yoga inversions are a great way to give your body a break from the everyday stresses of life. Plus, let's be honest: inverted poses are just plain fun! Let’s explore some of the benefits, shall we?
Yoga inversions help to build core strength
Next time you find yourself upside down in downward dog, take a moment to appreciate how challenging – and how awesome – a feat that is. Not only are you bending your body in ways it’s not accustomed to, but you’re also doing it while relying on nothing but your own strength. All power to you!!!
But as it turns out, there’s more to yoga inversions than just being a fun way to show off your flexibility. These poses also work the muscles that stabilise the spine, including the ever-important transverse abdominis, which wraps around the abdomen like a corset and helps to support the lower back.
Additionally, inversions help to lengthen the erector spinae – a group of muscles that runs along either side of the spine – which can often become shortened and tightened from spending too much time sitting or standing. So why not shake up your lunch-break, and bring in a quick inversion-session to help break up all that desk-time.
Yoga inversions help to change your perspective & energy
Yoga inversions are an excellent way to change your perspective - both figuratively and literally. If you’ve been feeling stuck in a rut, try hanging upside down or standing on your head, to help you see the world from a different viewpoint and shift your energy. You might just find that they help you to see things in a whole new light.
Yoga inversions can help reduce anxiety & stress
Whether it's a headstand, handstand, supported shoulder stand, or simply legs-up-the-wall, inverting your body can help to calm the mind. Inversions help release tension from the spine and lengthen the muscles in the back and shoulders. So you can skip the massage and head straight to the yoga mat next time you’re feeling a little stressed out.
Induce child-like feelings with yoga inversions
Inversions are a common play therapy technique that can be incredibly helpful in inducing child-like feelings. During an inversion, we are essentially flipping our world upside down. Although that might be a disorienting idea for the type-A’s amongst us, if you let yourself relax into it for a moment, you might start to feel the exhilaration of letting go of your inhibitions and embracing a more child-like energy.
Boost your immune-system, thanks to yoga inversions
If the past few years are anything to go by, we could all do with having a couple extra ways to naturally boost our immune system in our back pocket. When you're upside down, your lymphatic system has a chance to drain more effectively, allowing your body to detoxify and cleanse itself more efficiently. Additionally, inverting helps to increase blood flow to your lymph nodes. This allows your immune system to function more effectively, making it better able to fight off infection and disease.
More mental clarity? Yes, please!
Feeling foggy and frazzled? Try going upside down. By inverting your body, you reverse the flow of blood and allow fresh blood and oxygen to flow to your brain. This helps to improve cognitive function and focus. So next time you're feeling stuck, try flipping your perspective and see how it can help you find some clarity.
How yoga inversions can help increase your energy
Think you’re too tired to get your butt to yoga?? Well, maybe you just need to try a few yoga inversions before you pull on your lululemons. Inversions are a great way to boost energy levels and get the blood flowing. You’ll be feeling refreshed and ready for class with just a few downward dogs.
Get better rest with yoga inversions
Yoga inversions are a great way to get better sleep. When you invert your body, it helps to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation. As a result, you'll feel more relaxed and your body will be better able to fall asleep. In addition, thanks to improved blood circulation and reduced stress levels, you'll wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Improve your memory, by getting upside down
When you're upside down, blood rushes to your head, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your brain. This increased blood flow can help to improve cognitive function and memory. Plus, we all know that when we get a little stressed or anxious, we’re more likely to forget even the simple things. Save yourself the time looking for those darned keys (again!!!) by incorporating yoga inversions into your daily routine.
Defy gravity (and the ageing process!)
And finally, by reversing the effects of gravity, inversions help to decompress the spine, relieving pressure and tension on joints. As we’ve mentioned, inversions can help to improve circulation and promote the drainage of lymphatic fluid – both of which can help to reduce inflammation, which contributes to the signs and symptoms of ageing. No thanks, we’ll take the inversions instead!
Trying Yoga Inversions at Home
If you're new to yoga, then you’ll likely need it's best to start with a simple pose such as the legs-up-the-wall, downward dog or supported shoulder-stand. Once you're comfortable with these poses, you can move on to more advanced inversions such as the headstand or handstand. Check out this video from our favourite upside-down-yogi, Martina, as she shares her tips to improve your form and help build strength, preparing you for arm balances and yoga inversions.