Yoga Benefits Series: Downward Facing Dog

Benefits of Downward Facing Dog Pose:

• Inverted poses are extremely important because they reverse the action of gravity on the body and get the blood and lymph flowing in opposite directions.
• Takes pressure off the heart, which has to work less to get blood flowing to the brain.
• Strengthens and tones the arms and legs
• Because of the weight bearing nature of the posture on the arms and legs it helps strengthen the bones and prevent osteoporosis.
• Lengthens and straightens the spine, helping to relieve pain in the upper, middle and lower back.
• The body gets a 360-degree stretch in just one pose.
• Although this pose is technically a resting pose, it strengthens the muscles in your arms, shoulders, sides, chest and upper back, while stretching the muscles in your ankles, calves, thighs and lower back.
• The compression of the stomach and the intestines experienced while practicing Downward Dog, helps to improve digestion,
• This pose can alleviate the symptoms of menopause, and when practicing the supported variation of Downward Dog, can help relieve menstrual discomfort.
• On an emotional level downward facing dog helps turn everything on its head and helps us see things from a different angle.
• It helps boost self-confidence
• If you are feeling anxious, sad or upset, relaxing into Downward Dog can help calm your mind while alleviating mild depression and stress.

If you are feeling tired, this pose can help you to feel more energized.