Kids love to do handstands! Emphasize that this is NOT a HEADSTAND. These poses give kids confidence to do something that they usually don’t do and the confidence to be in a situation where things may be turned upside down.
Start with an L handstand. They won’t be able to be at an L, and their legs will be high on the wall. Over time their arms, tummies and legs will build up strength.
For regular handstands, children usually can’t get themselves up. Big kids can kick up, or may need assistance. Little ones I assist, and just plain pick up their legs and hold them with their hands giving support.
HANDSTAND
Adho Mukha Vriksasana
Handstand
Begin in table position facing the wall. Shrug shoulders up and melt the heart. Keeping arms strong and shoulders on the back, press up into downward dog. From downward dog, take a step forward with and kick up with the back leg.
Squeeze in with the inner thighs and extend feet up into the air.
BENEFITS
Strengthens shoulders, arms and wrists. Expands the chest. Tones the organs.
L–HANDSTAND
L–Handstand
Begin seated with back against the wall, legs extended straight out. Let hands reach where heels were. Place hands, come into table position, then into downward dog. Step up with one foot against the wall, then press the other into the wall, both together.