For Adho Mukha Svanasana -Downward Facing Dog:
1. Begin in Standing Forward Bend, bringing both hands down to the mat.
2. Step the feet toward the back of the mat, pressing into the hips and pushing down into the palms. Spread the shoulders wide while keeping the neck relaxed or neutral.
3. Press the heels down toward the mat.
You can walk the feet, pressing down the heals for a greater stretch in the calves. Breathe in while pressing the hips and tailbone to the ceiling, exhale roll the shoulders out and relax the posture.
Physical Benefits:
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Stretches the shoulders, hamstrings, calves, arches, and hands
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Strengthens the arms, legs, and core
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Energizes and rejuvenates the body
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Relieves tension in the spine and neck
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Improves circulation and lymphatic drainage
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Calms the nervous system and helps relieve stress
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Can help relieve back pain and headaches
Energetic/Emotional Benefits:
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Balances and grounds the energy body
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Cultivates a sense of release and surrender
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Builds focus and mental clarity
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Encourages introspection and mindfulness
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Invites a playful sense of openness and flow
Downward Facing Dog is a classic yoga pose that refreshes the body and mind. This energizing inversion stretches and strengthens the entire body, offering relief to tired muscles and a moment of deep release. As the hips lift and the head lowers, the pose invites calmness and clarity, helping to create space and ease throughout the body’s systems
Be the master of your body….Down Dog!
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