Puppy pose, or melting heart pose, is a beautiful heart opener to stretch out the arms, shoulders and chest, as well as open up the spine, upper back and lower back…
SANSKRIT NAME
- Uttana Shishosana
ALIGNMENT & VARIATIONS
- Beginning in table top position, walk hands out in front, beginning to melt the chest down towards the mat
- Keep hips stacked directly over knees, hips and sit bones high up towards the sky
- Chin or forehead to the mat, being cautious of how the neck feels (be careful not to strain the neck)
- Arms relaxed, shoulders down away from ears
- Back body, waist, hips and legs relaxed
- Breathe deeply, every exhale melting the heart a little deeper down into mat
- Sensitive knees: roll the mat up or place a folded blanket or cushion beneath the knees for extra padding
BENEFITS
- Lengthens arms and shoulders
- Releases tension in shoulders, neck, upper back, lower back and spine
- Opens up the throat (if chin is on the mat) and chest
- Mini back-bending action creates space in the spine and upper and lower back, relieving pain or stiffness
WATCH: IN SEQUENCE