Yogidex

Teacher Training Companion

HomePosesPhilosophyAnatomyPracticeGlossary
HomePosesPhilosophyAnatomyPracticeGlossary
All Poses

Adho Mukha Svanasana

Downward-Facing Dog

Downward-Facing Dog
beginnerStanding/Forward Fold

Muscle Groups

HamstringsCalvesDeltoidsTricepsCoreLatissimus dorsi

An inverted V-shape pose that is one of the most widely recognized yoga poses, used as both a resting pose and a transition.

Alignment Cues

  • 1.Hands shoulder-width apart, feet hip-width apart
  • 2.Press the floor away, lifting the hips up and back
  • 3.Bend the knees as needed to lengthen the spine
  • 4.Rotate the upper arms outward
  • 5.Relax the head between the arms

Benefits

  • +Stretches hamstrings, calves, and shoulders
  • +Strengthens arms and legs
  • +Energizes the body
  • +Calms the nervous system
  • +Relieves headache and insomnia

Muscle Groups

HamstringsCalvesDeltoidsTricepsCoreLatissimus dorsi

Contraindications

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Late-term pregnancy
  • High blood pressure
  • Detached retina