Experts say you shouldn’t just try one on your own, because a headstand can be medically risky for some people.
“Also, if someone is on anticoagulants, a headstand is not a good idea,” says Timothy McCall, an internist and the author of “Yoga as Medicine: The Yogic Prescription for Health and Healing.” And, “a headstand is not a good idea for someone with neck arthritis.
,” McCall says. “Choose an experienced instructor, as well as an instructor who’s skilled in observing poses.” “This evaluation does not necessarily just depend on your yoga experience,” McCall says. “A good natural neck curve is essential to make sure your body can handle different weights, so you don’t injure the cervical spine under pressure.”As to how long to hold a headstand? Very briefly at first — listen to your instructor’s advice, and don’t shoot for any set amount of time. If you feel comfortable, you can build up duration gradually.