When I first started practicing yogasana, I never imagined I could possibly find steadiness or comfort in arm balances. Not only did I feel that I lacked the required strength to perform these balances, but I had a fear of falling flat on my face.

Sundar performing bakasana, crane/crow pose, in Tamil Nadu last December.

I watched my yoga teachers in wonder as they effortlessly lifted their bodies and hovered their torsos above the earth for long intervals of time. For a while, I shied out of trying to follow them. I am so grateful to my dear partner Sundar, who helped me work beyond my hesitation and attempt arm balances with more confidence and focus.

The first time I managed to maintain bhujapdasana, or shoulder-pressing pose, for a few breaths was a slight “a-ha!” moment. I suddenly comprehended on a physical level that arm balances have as much, or perhaps more, to do with core engagement than arm strength. Likewise, as soon I confidently shifted my gaze, or drishti, more forward, the pose opened up.

I have since come to embrace arm balances. Each time I discover how to perform a new one is like unveiling an individualized formula balancing strength, weight, and flexibility. Arm balances have also kindly forced me to trust and become more aware of my own strength and weaknesses, and do so with patience and focus. These asana have also helped me increase my strength to more safely use my flexibility.

Ravi Kumar, at Deenabandhu, practicing a lifted variation of eka pada sirsasana.

Shortly after I decided to post something on arm balances, I discovered a great article from yoga journal by Julie Gudmestad. It provides a few excellent tips and poses to help build up core and arm strength for those who are new to arm balances and more experienced practitioners. I encourage you to read it!

Trying to balance in sari…