Finding Joy and Playfulness in Handstand
(Adho Mukha Vrksasana)
As we move into November, a month often centered around gratitude and reflection, our yoga theme — Gratitude in Motion — invites us to embody appreciation through the way we move, breathe, and show up on the mat. This month, we explore the playful, courageous spirit of Adho Mukha Vrksasana — the Handstand.
The Meaning Behind the Pose
In Sanskrit, *Adho Mukha Vrksasana* translates to “Downward-Facing Tree Pose.” The name reflects both the strength and rootedness of a tree, even when turned upside down. While it may look like a show of power and balance, at its heart, Handstand teaches us humility, patience, and the joy of the process.
Gratitude in the Journey
Many yogis see Handstand as a “goal pose,” but the truth is — the journey toward it holds the real magic. Every fall, every wobble, every second of lift-off reminds us to stay grateful for the small steps forward. Gratitude in motion means finding appreciation not for perfection, but for progress.
Handstand doesn’t define how “advanced” you are; rather, it expands your understanding of playfulness and presence. Approaching this pose with curiosity — instead of expectation, invites freedom and joy into your practice.
Daily Handstand Drills to Explore
Here are a few playful ways to bring Handstand energy into your daily movement:
- Wrist & Shoulder Warm-Up:
Roll your wrists gently and practice shoulder opening drills like Puppy Pose or Dolphin Pose to prepare your foundation.
- Core Activation:
Practice Boat Pose (Navasana) or plank variations to build the deep core strength essential for balance.
- L-Shape Wall Drill:
Place your hands about 15–20 cm from a wall, walk your feet up into an “L” shape, and press through your hands to feel lift and stability.
- Hops from Downward Dog:
From Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog), lightly hop your feet toward your hands, exploring the feeling of lightness and momentum.
- Tuck Handstand Holds:
Facing the wall, gently kick up and practice small holds with knees bent. Focus on control, not height.
Each of these drills can be practiced for 5–10 minutes daily — always with mindfulness and joy. Remember: it’s about cultivating gratitude for what your body can do today, not chasing the perfect inversion.
Play, Fall, Rise, Repeat
As you explore Handstand this month, approach it like a child discovering something new — with curiosity, laughter, and gratitude. When we embody Gratitude in Motion, every practice becomes a celebration of the journey rather than the destination.
Take a breath. Smile. Flip your world upside down.
And remember — gratitude grows stronger when we meet ourselves with grace.
Continue Your Journey Online
If you’d like to deepen your practice in your own safe space, or while traveling, I warmly invite you to become a Bliss Member of my virtual Online Studio. You’ll find guided tutorials for poses like handstands, yoga classes, breath work, sound healing, meditations, and chair yoga — all designed to help you explore strength, flexibility, and playfulness at your own pace. Your journey, your space, your joy. Follow the link to become BLISS ONLINE MEMBER.
