Adho Mukha Svanasana - Downward Facing Dog Pose

This pose has 1 image(s) and 0 video(s)
  • Description
  • Anatomy
  • Chakra
  • Dosha
  • Intensity
  • Position
  • Prana
  • Benefits
  • Contraindications

Description

Description

Downward Facing Dog Pose is a half inversion pose that stretches and strengthens the entire body. This pose gives a good stretch for the hamstrings and calf muscles, and strengthens the arms and shoulders.

Preparations of the pose include hamstring stretch with the blocks under the feet, shoulder and chest opening against the wall.

To perform the pose, start from the cat pose. Lift the hips up and straighten the arms and extend the spine. Arch the chest and bring the forehead touching the floor.

For a supported stretch, the pose can be practised with heels touching the wall, focus on extending the spine.

Anatomy

Anatomy

Poses are categorized by anatomical parts like shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles, as well as movements such as extension and flexion. This detailed information is valuable for yoga practitioners at every skill level to grasp the anatomy of poses and movements more effectively.

Elbow-Extension, Hip-Flexion, Knee-Extension, Neck-Extension, Shoulders-Hyperflexion, Spine-Extension

Chakra

Chakra

Each chakra affects different aspects of our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. When energy channels (nadis) become blocked due to unhealthy habits and old patterns, the chakras stagnate, resulting in a sluggish life force that can impact physical, mental, and emotional health. Various yoga poses influence different organs and systems in our body. By practicing specific poses that target each chakra, individuals can harmonize their physical, emotional, and spiritual energies, leading to a more balanced and satisfying life. Practicing specific poses helps to rejuvenate the nadis and chakras, enabling prana to flow freely. These poses are categorized to regulate the flow of prana, allowing the related chakras and their associated organs and systems to function optimally, promoting overall well-being and harmony.

Vishuddi

Dosha

Dosha

Dosha possesses unique traits that impact our physical and mental well-being. Practicing Asana can be a powerful method to maintain balance and enhance our overall well-being. The asanas are categorized based on their primary influence on the body and mind, which is associated with imbalances in the doshas. * Vata: Front bending and hip-opening poses work well for harmonizing Vata. Incorporating strengthening and balancing poses can also help alleviate various Vata-related conditions, such as joint pain, flatulence, and musculoskeletal issues related to the small and large intestines. * Pitta: Twists and side-bending poses help regulate digestion, assimilation, and absorption processes for Pitta Dosha. These movements aid in circulation in the abdomen, balancing Pitta, and addressing conditions concerning the liver, spleen, gall bladder, stomach, duodenum, and pancreas. * Kapha: Backbends are beneficial for stimulating Kapha's energy and easing chest congestion common in Kapha individuals. These poses can alleviate issues related to sinuses, nostrils, throat, and lungs. Keep in mind that the doshas vary throughout the year, with each dosha having its corresponding season. Seek guidance from a knowledgeable teacher to maximize the benefits and maintain dosha balance effectively.

Kapha

Intensity

Intensity

The poses' intensity is classified according to individuals who practice yoga daily for at least a year. It's essential to note that the intensity of the poses serves as a general guide to grasp the complexity of the steps leading to the final pose and the pose's difficulty itself. The intensity of each pose is influenced by the breathing techniques employed. It's essential to practice mindfully and under the expert guidance of a knowledgeable and experienced yoga instructor.

30

Position

Position

Poses are categorized based on the initial step of the pose or the approach taken. For Example - Chakrasana, also known as the Wheel pose, can be classified in two different ways in position category. If the pose is executed from a standing position to a drop back, it falls under the category of standing back bending poses. When performed from a supine position on the back and then lifted into the Wheel pose, it is classified as a supine back bending pose. Please refer to the relevant pose video on each page, as there are multiple videos demonstrating the same pose with different approaches as mentioned above.

Standing-Front bend

Prana

Prana

What is Prana? Regulates all physical functions There are five major vayus in the body — Udana, Prana, Samana, Apana, and Vyana — each governing a specific area of your body and its functions. Prana Vayu Prana vayu is a fundamental energy that governs the circulation of oxygen and life-force energy throughout the body, maintaining overall vitality and well-being. It primarily functions in the Heart Chakra and the chest. Certain asanas, such as side bends and back bending, that help expand and open the chest regions are beneficial for activating the prana. Apana Vayu Apana vayu functions in the pelvic region of the body and is responsible for elimination functions, such as urination, bowel movements, and menstruation. Certain asanas, including twisting and front bending poses, can help activate these regions and are especially beneficial for activating apana. Samana Vayu Samana vayu is the vital force located in the Solar Plexus Chakra, just above the navel. It is responsible for facilitating digestion, metabolism, and nutrient distribution throughout the body. Certain asanas, such as twisting and front bending, help stimulate the abdominal region and are beneficial for activating samana. Udana Vayu Udana vayu circulates in the region above the heart and governs actions like swallowing, facial expressions, and speech. Certain asanas, such as inversions that direct energy to the head, neck, and upper back, are beneficial for activating udana. Vyana Vayu Vyana vayu facilitates distribution systems in the body, including the movement of energy through the nadis. It controls circulatory, lymphatic, and nervous systems, and directs muscle movements. When vyana vayu is out of balance, the other vital energies are affected. Certain asanas, like inversions and deep twisting and binding poses, are beneficial for activating vyana vayu.

Vyana

Benefits

Benefits

Stretches the calves and hamstrings. Strengthens the arms and the shoulders. Increases blood circulation. Improves the flexibility of the hips.

Contraindications

Contraindications