The many benefts of inversion exercises

by Tina O'Sullivan, Certified Pilates Instructor

If you know me at all you know I LOVE to be upside down, and I usually get one of two response when I share my inverted experience… either ‘WOW’ or ‘OW.’ Although I want everyone else to be as excited as I am to get upside down, I totally understand the initial “OW” reaction.

Inversions are not all about being flashy on Instagram, and showing off how cool I look with all the blood rushing to my face… #joking.  There are actually many benefits to getting a different view of things every once and a while (on and off the mat).

***Practice SAFELY and under the supervision of your personal trainer/instructor. 

1. Relieves that back pain you are way too young for. Inversion relaxes muscles, rehydrates discs, realigns and reduces pressure.  Inverted exercises help build a strong core,  and increase overall flexibility, which is essential to back health.
2. Natural Detox #blessed. Being upside-down stimulates the lymphatic system.  The Lymph system is also considered our sewage system, it pretty much helps remove the garbage from our blood.
3. Chills you out. This inverted pose is technically a cooling exercise, meaning that it helps you to draw your attention inwards. As you work on balance, gravity takes over and releases tension in the shoulders neck and back.  I notice that holding a handstand helps when I am feeling particularly anxious or stressed.
4. Helps you focus. When you are in such an unfamiliar pose, you have to be completely focused on the body as a WHOLE.  While being upside down,  oxygen-rich blood runs to your brain.  After you get used to this feeling you begin to notice that your brain feels more alive and ready for the crazy world ahead.
5. Look beautiful forever. Inversions promote better circulation, and everyone knows better circulation has been linked to fewer wrinkles and less acne.

Don’t let all the beautiful half-naked women on Instagram intimidate you. You don’t need to be able to hold a handstand for a minute to get the benefits of being upside down. You can use different props/equipment to help you gain a better understanding of the “upside-down.” 

• Pilates Equipment (for releasing backward) — We have so many different pieces of equipment that will help you get inverted safely. 
• Aerial Yoga — This is such a popular thing right now; I LOVE taking this type of yoga class. 
• The WALL! — The wall has been my best friend since the very start of my inversion addiction. ;-)  

My recommendation is to take it slow and LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! It took me over 3 years to even be able to hold a headstand without support.  I am still working on my handstand daily, its a process, and enjoy the ride!!!