Photography, Crow Pose, Writing Prompt

Crashing & Crushing the Crow

January Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Self”

Balancing act to not crash skull.

The crow pose is much tougher to learn than the headstand. It took lots of practice, forehead and cheek crashes, swearing, and awkward falls to master this pose. My son and I compete against each other and laugh lots in between wobbles, ugly form, and failed attempts.

The first time I tried, I held it for a millisecond and thought it would be impossible to hold it for longer than 5 seconds without crashing my skull. Learning this pose was a humbling experience.

It’s more than just a yoga pose and I took away meaningful life lessons from the crow. It improves balance, focus, and concentration and also offers physical benefits such as building and toning the core and strengthening the arms and upper back. Eventually, I could hold the pose for 19 seconds after 60 days of daily practice when I first challenged myself to learn crow in the fall of 2020.

The key is to look forward — not down.

Today over a year later, my record for holding crow pose is 90 seconds — I guess I can say I’m crushing the crow! Practice makes progress.

Learn the crow — like nobody’s watching.

This is the technique I used to learn the crow pose, featuring Dylan Werner from Alo Moves. He’s gorgeous to watch — I’m awed by his strength and agility. Note: It’s typically easier for men to master this pose as they have more upper body strength. Tip: Put a safety pillow in front of your head to prepare for crashes!

Can you tell a story in six words inspired by a photo taken by yourself?

If you’d like to submit to the Six Word Photo Story Challenge and participate in January’s “Self” Challenge, see full details and rules below.

The January “Self” challenge is open for submissions from Tues, January 4, and closes Mon, January 31, 2021, at NOON, PACIFIC STANDARD TIME.

NOTE: Stories not formatted correctly or that require edits will delay publication or may not be accepted. Formatting guidelines are unique to this publication — please read them thoroughly.

About the Writer

Mary Chang is the editor of the Six Word Photo Story Challenge publication — inspired by her original 6-Word Photo Story Summer Challenge writing prompt (2021) on Medium. She’s also a writer, parent, and fitness enthusiast who takes a good photo sometimes — and loves creating monthly challenges.

Fueled by cartwheels, laughter, and encouraging people to shine. Read her blog at www.marychangstorywriter.com