How to: Rock your Handstand with Dan Morgan

Last year I had the great pleasure of hanging out with Dan Morgan of DCM Lifestyle in Thailand for a week on the Namaslay Yoga Teacher Training, and not only was he just a great guy who can skilfully create a supportive space for a nervous new teacher (me!) to find their voice, he is also an absolute MASTER handstander! “Handstand Dan”, as I call him has very kindly graced my blog this week to share some of his story and a few top tips to help you master inversions.

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Spotlight on Manduka Yoga

Before we dive in with Dan, I want to take a moment to tell you about Manduka Yoga. You might know them for their gorgeous yoga mats, but they have branched out and created an activewear range that is nothing short of sensational. I LOVE their soft, strong fabric and timeless approach to style. You can use my code WKYOGA10 for a 10% discount all your Manduka purchases.

Okay Dan, let’s start big! Who are you? What drives you? What inspires you?

My name is Daniel Morgan, I'm a 28 year old Brighton based International Yoga Teacher, Teacher Trainer, Clinical Massage Therapist, and coach. 

What inspires me? Big Question! Firstly, all the people that are part of of my day to day life - both in my hometown and when I'm travelling, books, music, film, art, food... pretty much everything to be honest! I feel that inspiration can be found anywhere and everywhere if you're open to it.

Exploring Thailand’s temples

What is it about being upside down that really appealed to you, and got you started on this journey?

When first beginning to invert, I noticed an immediate sense of calm and focus. This was so beneficial for me at the time, as I was suffering quite badly with anxiety. Getting upside down really enabled me to become present to my body and the moment.

Why do you think a handstand, or any kind of inversion is such a focus for so many yogis especially these days?

Big question - and I wouldn't like to assume, but I'm happy to suggest some potential reasons as to why...

I guess if we start with the obvious -  I think that people potentially see it as a cool trick that's got some 'Wow' appeal. The gram has really added to this belief. 

I think more and more people are recognising just how much strength, stability, and balance (both physically and mentally) are required and must be developed if they wish to learn to handstand. Which can then positively add to all areas of your physical practice.

Learning to handstand / invert can really develop you as an individual - they can be very empowering, used as a tool for working with fear, and also for developing courageousness, persistence, patience, and playfulness.

How long did it take you to learn to handstand, and what did this practice involve? 

I've been jumping and playing around since I was able to walk - so it's pretty difficult for me to directly pinpoint when it all began. That being said, my 'proper' handstanding journey started when I was about 21/22. To define “proper” - this was when I started attending workshops and classes with professional handbalancers, and began a regular practice (roughly 4/5 times a week). To date I’ve now been practicing for 6/7 years.

Hand balance on a swing? No problemo for Handstand Dan!

If you had to pick 3 key take-away learning points to share with people who are working towards a handstand what would they be?

1. Persistence, Patience, Playfulness and consistency. The handstand is an amazing balance to learn, but it can also be a very frustrating one - so having these  things in mind as you start/continue the journey is really important.

2. I'd recommend working with a teacher, as this will really speed up your journey - this being said, if you aren't able to work with a Teacher for whatever reason, then make sure you film your training sessions and journal afterwards. Self-reflection is so important when learning and it will really help you see where you need to place more of your focus.

3. Have fun! If you're not having fun - then whats the point. Don't take yourself too seriously, and it'll happen.

Lastly, for those who are serious about their learning, where can we find you and your trainings?

My website is dcmlifestyle.com, where I frequently update my international schedule. I offer both workshops for practitioners, and also trainings for teachers looking to deepen their practice and teaching. 

I can also be contacted on dcmlifestyle1@gmail.com for any questions etc. In 2020 I will be offering more online services, which will be beneficial for me being able to work with people that aren't able to see me in person - so if this is of interest to you, just get in touch! 

BIG thanks to Dan for taking the time to share his wisdom with us. It’s well worth taking the time to get yourself onto a course or training with Dan and get ready to learn ALL the things!