Yoga Pose of the Week: Extended Puppy Pose

Yoga Pose of the Week: Extended Puppy Pose

Extended Puppy Pose

Extended puppy pose

I absolute love extended puppy pose. It feels so good on my spine and shoulders. I am hesitant to post images of me in the because of its ambiguity.  This pose is a great spine opener. Having your chest touch the ground is not mandatory or accessible for everyone. Listen to your body and work from there.

 

Instructions

1. From table pose, inhale and reach the tailbone up towards the ceiling.

2. Exhale and slide the hands forward to lower the forehead straight down to the floor keeping the hips lifted over the knees. Let the chest sink down towards the floor, feeling an arch and stretch in the middle of the back.

3. To deepen the stretch in the arms, shoulders and spine, straighten the arms, lift the elbows off the floor, super glue the palms down and reach back through the hips.

4. Breathe and hold for 4-8 breaths.

5. To release: inhale and bring the palms under the shoulders and press back into table position.

Benefits + Contraindications

Benefits: Extended Dog pose lengthens and realigns the spine and gently stretches the upper back, arms, and shoulders.

Contradictions: Recent or chronic injury to the knees, back, arms or shoulders.

Modifications + Variations

Modifications: Place a folded blanket under the knees to protect them.

Variation: Place the chin on the floor to deeply stretch the neck.

 

 

Source http://www.yogabasics.com/asana/extended-dog-pose/

Back to blog

Leave a comment