Yogidex

Teacher Training Companion

HomePosesPhilosophyAnatomyPracticeGlossary
HomePosesPhilosophyAnatomyPracticeGlossary
All Poses

Anahatasana

Puppy Pose (Heart Melting Pose)

Puppy Pose (Heart Melting Pose)
beginnerProne/Backbend

Muscle Groups

ShouldersSpinal extensorsChestLatissimus dorsi

A hybrid between Child's Pose and Downward Dog, where the chest melts toward the floor while the hips stay over the knees.

Alignment Cues

  • 1.Start on all fours
  • 2.Walk the hands forward while keeping the hips over the knees
  • 3.Lower the chest and forehead toward the floor
  • 4.Keep the arms active and extended
  • 5.Melt the heart toward the mat

Benefits

  • +Opens the chest and shoulders
  • +Stretches the spine
  • +Relieves tension in the upper back
  • +Calms the mind

Muscle Groups

ShouldersSpinal extensorsChestLatissimus dorsi

Contraindications

  • Knee injury
  • Shoulder injury