Crow pose steps seems like a playground trick, half courage, part “please don’t face-plant.” Most people notice it and murmur, “There’s no way.” Surprisingly, it has more legs and breath than just arm power.

Start at the beginning; crouch down, feet apart, then gently lay elbows on knees. There is no need to hurry. Plant your hands on the mat and splay your fingers as though you were working dough. Under those triceps, find a strong place for your knees. Lean forward, more than would be considered courteous. Not your wrists, but your fingertips choose the pulse of the party. Look ahead, not straight down; this stops the palm-to–forehead movement commonly known as a yoga self-headbutt.

One foot should be raised. Then the other. Heart misses a beat. Welcome to every club designed for first-time visitors. If you knock, the floor has been waiting for your high-five entire class. Not sweat it. Most awkward falls teach you something. The secret is to use your core, grab with your fingertips, and preserve mild arm bends. Call a cheeky crow, inquisitive and audacious.

Startners should arrange cushions in front. Not guilty. Before ever bringing Bakasana up, some courses sneak in wrist stretches, cat-cow rotations, and plank holds. That is preparation—building invisible wings for the great event. Though holy moly is more important than core drills, they are not glamorous. Ten seconds off the floor seems like a minute floating above the ground. Wonder at quivering muscles. That is not calamity; that is growth.

More advanced yogis—try straightening arms, or finally leap back into Chaturanga. Fly, crash, laugh, return. Every Try is unique. There are days when you float. Other days, gravity pulls you back down and exhibits a tantrum.

The best thing about this is It helps you to reinterpret falling. “I can’t” suddenly starts to sound “maybe next try. And most days have enough of “maybe”. Remember: every crow stumbled a little before learning to swoop; have fun. Celebrate the hover even if it only lasts a few second. That is flight in the crow-style.