Pose of the Month: Downward Dog
I'm so glad you decided to check out the first pose of the month! Each month, I will randomly select a pose and break down the proper alignment.
Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
Downward dog is probably one of the most common yoga poses. You will typically find yourself in multiple downward dogs in a single yoga class. Teachers will often call this a "resting pose," but if you've ever held the pose for a long time, you wouldn't think so. A lot is happening with the body during this pose. As you begin to find the proper alignment, remember to focus on the breath. Each breath you take helps you sink deeper into the pose.
Key Cues
Press into all 10 fingertips - put extra weight into the pointer finger and thumb
Gaze towards the bellybutton
Push your sit bones towards the sky
Zip your front ribs together
Draw your shoulder blades down the back and feel the space between the shoulder blades lift
Release your heels towards the ground
Benefits
Strengthens the arms and legs
Energizes the body
Calms the brain
Stretches the shoulders, hamstrings, calves, arches and hands
More benefits can be found at: Yoga Journal Yoga Poses Directory
Was this helpful to find your full downward dog? What other poses do you want to learn about? Comment below!
Namaste