The handstand. It can feel like an insurmountable feat for many, which makes it all the more alluring. Many of us want it, however, are we really taking the steps needed to set us up for success? There is so much skill involved, so it is only natural that we respect the pose and approach it somewhat tactfully.
Sometimes the smallest tip or piece of advice can make a world of difference and prevent us becoming disheartened in our attempts! Fortunately, one of our very own TIY teachers has ample experience guiding people towards handstand, at any stage of their journey (whilst making it fun!). We spoke with Bevan Pfeiffer about his upcoming handstand workshop, read below!!
What can students expect from your workshop? Is it suitable for students of all experience?
Yes of course all levels are welcome! You can expect to have fun, overcoming fears and also a chance to surprise yourself in your own abilities.
For those of us hoping to practice handstanding once a month and miraculously get up one day, how realistic is that? Do you feel that consistency is key (if so, ballpark - how consistent are we talking if we really want to see progress)?
If handstand freestanding in the middle of the room is a goal, then yes consistency is key, at least 20 mins a day. If you just want to be at the wall and still get all the benefits of handstands then building the confidence to be upside down is a great journey, which you can do once or twice a week.
What is it that you love about handstands? Do you have a favourite variation, or do you prefer the classic?
Nothing beats a classic handstand. For me it was the journey of getting upside down. I started to understand myself in a whole new way, my frustrations, my fears, how can I approach something with a clear mind and letting go of the result. Even now it's the process of staying up for longer, it's always the journey that is the most rewarding.
Are there any benefits associated with handstands and inversions?
Overcoming fears, shoulder strength, hand strength, core strength, leg strength, calms the central nervous system, drains the lymphatic system and puts blood into your face which can help with making skin look radiant.
If you could provide students with a quote or wise words going into this workshop, what would that be?
Embrace the journey and the process.
Do you do any other activities that complement your yoga practice, or vice versa?
I go rock climbing which helps a lot with balance, shoulder and hand strength.
What are your three desert island yoga poses (i.e. you are stuck on an island and can only choose three poses to practice)?
Wheel, wide legged forward fold and handstand.
Your classes are quite strong and intelligently constructed to prepare students' bodies and minds to go further than they sometimes expected, or knew they could! Does your home practice get pretty wild with inversions and strong, deep poses?
My home practice is quite fundamentally focused and I work more with my alignment. Only when I go to my teachers class do I allow myself to explore. I’ve spent a lot of years doing yoga so all those complicated poses are within me - but I prefer to keep things simple and focus on my breath.
See more about Bevan here and check out the TIY Timetables to practice his class!
Author: This is Yoga
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM FOR HOW TO VIDEOS, TIP AND TRICKS, YOGA INSPO AND MUCH MORE!
