Back Bends

EFFECT: Opens the chest and lumbar spine, invigorates. PROPS: Block GAZE: Up toward the ceiling PRECEDING POSES: Cobra, Sphinx COUNTERPOSES: Happy Baby, Knees into Chest PRECAUTIONS: If you have lower back issues, try turning this into a restorative pose. To do so, place a block on its low or medium height underneath your sacrum, the boniest … Read moreBridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana)

EFFECT: Opens the chest, energizing. PROPS: Block. GAZE: Tip of your nose PRECEDING POSES: Cobra, Up Dog, Half Forward Fold COUNTERPOSES: Child’s pose, Seated Forward Fold PRECAUTIONS: If you have any lower back issues, keep this back bend smaller by maintaining your hands on your sacrum. STEPS: 1. Kneel on your shins, toes tucked under … Read moreCamel Pose (Ustrasana)