It's HandStand February!
What’s that you may ask? It’s the month where people all over Australia celebrate being upside down by practising and posting their handstands online each day of the month. In lieu of Handstand February we have decided to write a list of why they are one of our favorite skills.
Handstands, What's So Great About Them?
When you think about circus skills there are a few tricks that automatically might pop into your head. On that list there is juggling, the splits and of course, handstands! Nothing impresses an audience or your friends quite like a solid handstand. Not only is it a skill that is fun to watch but they are also super fun to do. So, what’s the big deal with handstands and why do we love them so much?
They are great for body awareness and balance . . .
It’s no mystery that learning most things in the circus take a lot of strength and coordination. Handstands require you to be in full control of your entire body, if you aren’t you might come tumbling down. In order for you to obtain that control have to learn concentrate on each muscle and what it’s doing to be able to adjust into the proper position, all while being upside down! This takes time, practice and patience but once you’ve got it, you’ll notice that it’s a skill that transfers over to other areas of your life. The better control you have over your body and the more balance you have the more you will succeed in almost any other physical activity.
They make you feel good!
It’s a well-known fact that all exercise makes you feel good. Not just physically but mentally too. Handstands are no exception. In fact, going upside down can actually increase these benefits. The extra blood flow to your brain creates an energizing and calming effect. They also help reduce production of cortisol, the stress hormone. All of this means that handstands help you to be a happier and healthier version of yourself!
You can do them at home . . .
One of the best things about handstands is how accessible of an exercise they are. Most circus skills require some sort of equipment whether it be a prop or an apparatus with a rigging system. All you need for practicing handstands is some good old fashion motivation, a bit of flat ground and your hands! Although taking a class is a great idea if you want to take them to the next level, learn proper technique or learn different variations.
They are fun for all ages!
You have to admit that going upside down and walking around on your hands is a lot of fun. For kids it is a fun way to learn about the capabilities of their bodies and to release some energy. For adults it is a great to connect with their inner child, have a play and to remember to have some fun during this lifetime.
Whether you are a handstand enthusiast, a professional acrobat or just someone wanting to learn something new. Handstands are a great way to stay fit, release some steam and have fun.
