The Yoga Handstand is also known as the Downward facing tree pose or the Adho Mukha Vrksasana. This is a rather difficult exercise to master and only the young and agile can do it. Some elderly also can do it, provided they have been learning to do it from their younger days. It is a question of practice and self-confidence to master this pose.
To make it easier for you to learn this pose you may use a chair and a bolster as props. You need to select a chair with a firm base and not a chair with wheels at its base. Place the bolster vertically against a wall and place a chair at about an arm’s length distance from the wall. Come on all fours while facing the wall, between the bolster and the chair. Place your head against the bolster and place your hands on either side of the bolster. Your palms are flat on the mat. Lower your neck to bring your head in between your arms.
Walk your feet towards your palms and press your shoulders and upper back against the bolster. Now raise your left leg up and place the left foot on the seat of the chair. Now lift the right leg too and place the right foot too on the seat of the chair.
Now you may lift one leg and make it vertical and rest your foot against the wall. Follow this up by lifting the other leg and place the other foot too against the wall.
Stay in this position for between four to five breaths and then exit this pose. Exit by lowering the left leg to rest the left foot on the chair seat and then lower the right leg. Now lower left leg further down and place the left foot on the floor. Follow this up with the other leg and stand up.
This pose is highly beneficial for improving the flow of blood towards your brain and face. It also nourishes your arms and shoulders. This apart it is used as a step in acrobatic sequences in gymnastics, acrobatics, and also in circus yoga.
Sources:
Adho Mukha Vrksasana (handstand, downward facing tree pose)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unScd46AEaE
http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/788
http://www.bradpriddy.com/yoga/handst.htm
Yoga positions - Adho Mukha Vrksasana
http://www.yogacards.com/yoga-postures-2/vrksasana-handstand-pose.html
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